Among the Los Angeles Dodgers’ top priorities this offseason include bolstering the bullpen and adding a right-handed bat to the roster. The club thus far has brought in a few relievers but still remain on the lookout for a hitter.
The need to acquire another right-handed hitter is even greater given the recent reports that indicate Kiké Hernandez will likely sign elsewhere. He has garnered plenty of interest in recent weeks, most notably from the Boston Red Sox, Minnesota Twins and Toronto Blue Jays.
As for Justin Turner — the Dodgers’ other free-agent right-handed bat — his situation remains unclear. The club is no closer to signing him now than they were at the start of free agency.
Turner was originally thought to be seeking a three-year contract, but he more recently was said to desire a four-year contract. The Dodgers, meanwhile, are hoping to bring him back on a two-year pact, via Jorge Castillo of the L.A. Times:
Turner seeks a four-year contract, according to people with knowledge of the situation. The Dodgers don’t want to give him a deal longer than two years.
Now in the latter stages of his career, Turner may find it difficult to land a deal that extends beyond three years. One possible solution, however, is if the Dodgers offer him a three-year contract with a team option for a fourth year.
With the scheduled start of Spring Training still six weeks away, both sides still have some time on their side in reaching a new deal. L.A. has been vocal with how much they value Turner, citing his contributions both on-and-off the field since signing a Minor League contract with the organization in 2014.
Possible alternatives if Turner signs with another team
While a lot of the talk this offseason has centered around Turner and the Dodgers, the club is casting a wide net for alternatives in the event he signs with another team.
L.A. has been mentioned as a potential landing spot for Nolan Arenado, although the Colorado Rockies are said to prefer trading him outside the National League West.
The Dodgers also remain in contact with DJ LeMahieu, who could be a solution at either third base or second base. However, the New York Yankees remain the favorite to re-sign him.
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