While the Los Angeles Dodgers had previously re-signed Jimmy Nelson — who was with the team but did not play in 2020 before undergoing season-ending back surgery — their first move with a notable free agent came with the re-signing of Blake Treinen.
A key contributor on the Dodgers’ World Series roster, he returned on a two-year contract that includes a team option for the 2023 season. Although Treinen is back in the fold, Dodgers free agents include Pedro Baez, Joc Pederson and Justin Turner, among others.
Pederson thus far has received reported interest from the Chicago White Sox, Milwaukee Brewers and St. Louis Cardinals. According to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, the Washington Nationals may be another team that looks to sign him:
The Nationals, after trading for first baseman Josh Bell, want to add a corner outfielder, ideally someone from the free-agent tier that includes Michael Brantley, Joc Pederson and Kyle Schwarber.
Marcell Ozuna figures to be too expensive for the Nats, and like Brantley was more of a DH last season. Pederson or perhaps Adam Duvall would be a more logical fit, considering Washington ranked last in the majors with -45 defensive runs saved.
Pederson is coming off arguably the worst season of his career, which coupled with a historically slow-moving free agency, has seemingly dampened the market. He batted .190/.285/.397 with four doubles, seven home runs and 16 RBI over 138 plate appearances (43 games) while again filling a platoon role.
Pederson shook off a down year to again deliver for the Dodgers in October. He enjoyed particular success during the National League Championship Series, reaching base safely eight times in 19 plate appearances.
Pederson’s best showing came in a must-win Game 3 of the NLCS, when he had four hits, including a three-run home run. Pederson also hit a homer in Game 5 of the World Series, helping the Dodgers move to within one victory of the championship.
“They don’t call it Joctober for no reason,” Max Muncy said at the time. “The guy performs on the huge stage. It’s just what he does.”
Would Pederson still fit on Dodgers roster?
For all of his postseason success, Pederson’s fit with the Dodgers hasn’t been the best since losing an everyday role. The team experimented with playing him at first base, but the results left plenty to be desired.
With Cody Bellinger entrenched in center field and Mookie Betts patrolling right field, there appear to be even fewer opportunities for Pederson. At best, the 28-year-old would remain part of a platoon with Chris Taylor in left field if he were to re-sign with the Dodgers.
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