The Los Angeles Dodgers recently made their first big splash in free agency with the re-signing of Blake Treinen to a two-year contract with a team option for a third season in 2023.
Improving their bullpen has been the main focus for the Dodgers so far this offseason as in addition to Treinen, they have also added quality arms Corey Knebel, Tommy Kahnle, Brandon Morrow and Jimmy Nelson.
Treinen is the biggest name of the bunch, obviously, after coming off a solid season with the Dodgers in 2020 in which he was a big part of the team winning the World Series.
The right-hander bet on himself by signing a one-year contract with the Dodgers last offseason, and now he is rewarded with the club bringing him back on a multi-year deal. Treinen’s new contract included a signing bonus and additional details are provided via Jorge Castillo of the L.A. Times:
Treinen is guaranteed $17.5 million over the next two seasons, according to a person with knowledge of the situation. The club option is worth $8 million. He will receive a $4-million signing bonus, a $6-million salary each of the first two years, and a $1.5-million buyout if the Dodgers don’t exercise the option for 2023. The 32-year-old right-hander could earn up to $24 million over the next three seasons.
In 27 appearances last season, Treinen pitched to a 3.86 ERA, 3.15 FIP and 1.21 WHIP with 22 strikeouts and eight walks in 25.2 innings. He had a 4.76 ERA in the postseason, but turned in really big outings when the team needed it most, often pitching three days in a row.
Even after the addition of Treinen, the Dodgers may not be done improving their bullpen as they also have been linked to Brad Hand and Liam Hendriks, among others, in recent weeks.
L.A.’s bullpen was arguably the best in baseball last season, so even without any other additions, they should be very formidable once again in 2021.
Dodgers, Turner apart in negotiations
Now that the bullpen has been addressed, the Dodgers’ offseason focus can shift to third base and a right-handed bat since Justin Turner remains a free agent.
While Turner returning is certainly not out of the question, he is reportedly seeking a four-year contract, which L.A. seems unwilling to do as they prefer a shorter deal.
If Turner does not return, other options on the free-agent and trade markets include DJ LeMahieu, Kris Bryant and Eugenio Suarez.
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