The Los Angeles Dodgers have been connected to a myriad infielders this offseason, though with Justin Turner now in the fold, the club’s focus shifts to second base. To this point the Dodgers appear to have their sights primarily set on Brian Dozier.
Reports of Los Angeles and the Minnesota Twins discussing a potential trade for the All-Star second baseman first surfaced after the General Manager meetings in November. Since that point, the Dodgers and Twins have reportedly continued to discuss potential trade packages.
The clubs are said to have agreed on Jose De Leon as the cornerstone of the Twins’ return, but are at odds over which other prospects should be included.
According to Darren Wolfson of KTSP, the St. Louis Cardinals and Washington Nationals are among the teams with interest in potentially trading for Dozier:
Dozier update: told LAD still very much in it. Here's the new wrinkle: STL very much in it, + Nats & Giants remain in dialogue. #MNTwins
— Darren Wolfson (@DWolfsonKSTP) December 26, 2016
Similar to the Dodgers, the San Francisco Giants reported interest in the 29-year-old dates back multiple weeks. Though even when taking into account the Cardinals and Nationals, the Dodgers are widely viewed as the most aggressive pursuers.
What’s more, the Dodgers make for an ideal trade partner as they boast the stockpile of prospects that fit what the Twins are seeking.
Dozier, who batted .268/.340/.546 with 35 doubles, 42 home runs, 99 RBI and a 136 OPS+ over 155 games this season, would provide an immediate boost to the Dodgers lineup. He set career highs in on-base plus slugging percentage (.886), doubles, home runs, RBI and OPS+.
Los Angeles reportedly is open to re-signing Chase Utley, and maintains some level of interest in Detroit Tigers second baseman Ian Kinsler. However, Kinsler does have a limited no-trade clause, and would only approve a trade to the Dodgers if given a contract extension.
