Fresh off winning their first World Series title since 1988, the Los Angeles Dodgers entered the offseason with plenty of tasks on their to-do list.
The club has eight free agents to make decisions on, as well as seven players to avoid arbitration with. Moreover, L.A. will explore the free-agent and trade markets for potential additions.
Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman has not been shy to make a major splash when the opportunity presents itself. That was evident earlier this year when he finalized a blockbuster trade for Mookie Betts and then signed him to a historic 12-year contract extension.
As for what might be in store this winter, Friedman noted the Dodgers will continue to be opportunistic and explore any transactions that make sense, via “Power Alley” on MLB Network Radio:
“It’s just kind of taking an open-minded approach, like we do every offseason. Continuing to vet the top of the market and just figuring out what potentially works for us and what doesn’t.”
Among the top free agents this offseason are Trevor Bauer, J.T. Realmuto and George Springer. The trade market will be active as well, with Francisco Lindor, Nolan Arenado and Kris Bryant all rumored to be available.
Most of the aforementioned players would have a clear fit on the 2021 Dodgers, but as Friedman noted, he will only pursue such a move if it is feasible.
Friedman offered hints at some of the areas he may look to improve, including the bullpen, which he wants to diversify. The unit was among the best in baseball during the 2020 season, but several contributors, including Blake Treinen and Pedro Baez, reached free agency.
Adding right-handed bat another focus for Friedman, Dodgers
Friedman also revealed that he is looking to add a right-handed hitting position player this winter. The obvious solution would be to re-sign Justin Turner and/or Kiké Hernandez, but they could ultimately receive more lucrative offers elsewhere.
For the Dodgers, retaining Turner is said to be more likely than completing a trade for Lindor or Arenado.
Though, it has since been reported the Dodgers remain interested in trading for Arenado, who can opt out of his contract with the Colorado Rockies after the 2021 season.
