Relief Pitching
Pass.
Ok, let’s elaborate. Darren O’Day, the prize of this year’s free agent reliever market, is rumored to have a deal in place for four years at about $8 million a year. He’s 33.
Ryan Madson, who didn’t pitch in 2012 or 2014, is going to sign a three-year deal with the A’s. He’s 35.
The money isn’t hugely important, but combined with the years, it creates a situation where a reliever is likely guaranteed a roster spot even if he isn’t effective anymore (read: Brandon League).
The Dodgers wants to get younger, and young, talented relievers generally don’t hit the open market. That opens the door to trades.
The Dodgers acquired Luis Avinal and Chris Hatcher in separate trades last year. Both are relatively young and provided positive value.
If the club really is in search of relief help, a trade is the likeliest way to go. The Indians have some good relievers, such as Cody Allen and Zach McAllister.
Meanwhile Oakland, who rarely shy away from dealing relievers, have some interesting options in Sean Doolittle and Fernando Rodriguez.
The crown jewel of the market is Cincinnati Reds closer Aroldis Chapman, whose name has come up as a viable trade candidate this offseason. With reports emerging that the Dodgers appear to be favorite, what would a package look like?
Obviously, Corey Seager and Julio Urias should be off the table. Joc Pederson and Yasiel Puig will be desired, but they should only be considered in deals for starting pitchers.
The odd man out may be Jose De Leon, the club’s No. 3 prospect. That seems like a lot to give up for Chapman, who’s eligible for free agency after the 2016 season. Grant Holmes, who has a similar profile to De Leon, could draw interest but he’s further away from the Majors.
Alex Wood’s name could come up as well, as he’s a young, cost-controlled arm. Jose Peraza may be the heir apparent to Brandon Phillips. Austin Barnes could provide another option behind the plate for the Reds.
With both Chapman and Kenley Jansen eligible to become free agents one year from now, it wouldn’t make much sense to keep one over the other.
There’s always the possibility that one is moved in another deal, but retaining both would give the Dodgers the most dominant bullpen duo in the game.
Of course, Los Angeles could rely more heavily on their own young bullpen arms, such as Pedro Baez, Yimi Garcia and Adam Liberatore. However, if they feel the need to acquire the ever-popular “proven veteran,” a trade seems more likely than a signing.
CONTINUE READING: What To Expect From The Dodgers — Outfield And More
