A disappointing exit in the National League Division Series led to many anticipating the Los Angeles Dodgers would be aggressive with making changes this offseason — perhaps even at manager.
While Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman — who himself signed a new contract — said Dave Roberts would remain at manager, he acknowledged the club would take an aggressive approach but avoid being reckless in free agency and with potential trades.
The Dodgers thus far have been linked to free agents Gerrit Cole, Josh Donaldson and Anthony Rendon, among others, and are believed to have interest in a possible trade for Francisco Lindor.
According to ESPN’s Buster Olney, the Dodgers and Texas Rangers are among teams Rendon has met with in free agency:
Some high-ranking club executives believe that third baseman Anthony Rendon will be the first of the mega-dollar free agents to come off the board this winter. Rendon has already had meetings with teams, including the Dodgers and Rangers, and before Rendon reached the open market, Washington made an offer in an effort to keep him.
The 29-year-old is coming off a remarkable season that saw him finish third in National League MVP voting and help the Washington Nationals to their first World Series win. As a right-handed batter and with a disciplined approach, Rendon profiles as someone who would fit well in the Dodgers’ lineup.
Furthermore, there remains a belief he will not seek the type of long-term contract Friedman has shied away from, and instead is open to sacrificing length in favor of a record-setting average annual value.
That’s an approach the Dodgers reportedly attempted to entice Bryce Harper with, though it’s not believed he gave it much consideration. Harper of course went on to sign a 13-year, $330 million contract with the Philadelphia Phillies.
Rendon doesn’t figure to have a shortage of suitors, but it’s unclear which teams other than the Dodgers, Nationals and Rangers are currently involved in his free agency process. Re-signing with Washington is not considered likely by some as they also are looking to retain Stephen Stasburg.
Joining the Rangers would mean a return to his home state for the Texas native. Furthermore, Rendon would be part of a Rangers team that is moving into their new Globe Life Field.
As for the Dodgers, Justin Turner has expressed a willingness to switch positions in order to accommodate Rendon if he were to sign with L.A.
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