2020 is a critical year for LAD. That window is closing a bit, and what they do to prepare for 2020 will dictate whether they open it a bit more or nail it shut. Perhaps the team does not spend smart, but they are not cheap. After getting under the CBT for 2018, they went back over in 2019. Because of vesting bonuses, Clayton Kershaw ($3MM) and Kenta Maeda ($5.4), the Dodgers hit $209.8MM in AAV, taking them $3.8MM past the CBT. The team will lose a lot of salary for 2020, but they will be approaching the CBT again in 2020. Will they let the CBT be a deterrent to make the team better?
Currently the Dodgers have 6 players with signed contracts going into the season totaling an AAV of $86.5MM:
- Clayton Kershaw – $31MM
- Kenley Jansen – $16MM
- Justin Turner – $16MM
- AJ Pollock – $12MM
- Joe Kelly – $8.333MM
- Kenta Maeda – $3.125MM
Per MLB Trade Rumors, currently the Dodgers have 12 players with salary arbitration, projected to be $53MM:
- Pedro Baez – $3.3MM (3rd year)
- Kike’ Hernandez – $5.5MM (3rd year)
- Joc Pederson – $8.5MM (3rd year)
- Yimi Garcia – $1.1MM (3rd year – Super 2 so has a 4th year)
- Chris Taylor – $5.0MM (2nd year)
- Corey Seager – $7.1MM (2nd year)
- Ross Stripling – $2.3MM (1st year)
- Austin Barnes – $1.3MM (1st year)
- Scott Alexander – $1.0MM (1st year)
- Max Muncy – $4.6MM (1st year)
- Cody Bellinger – $11.6MM (1st year)
- Julio Urias – $1.7MM (1st year)
That is a $30.6MM increase over their 2019 salaries. There is a discrepancy with Urias. While MLB Trade Rumors has him eligible for arbitration in 2020, both Cots and Baseball Reference shows that he is not eligible until 2021. But for this exercise, I will leave him as arbitration eligible.
That is 18 Dodgers with either guaranteed contracts or projected arbitration settlements totaling $139.5MM. With player benefits projected to be $15.0MM, the Dodger AAV before the rest of the roster is determined sits at approximately $154.5MM. The 2020 CBT is at $208MM. That gives the Dodgers about $53.5MM of additional spending without exceeding the CBT.
With rosters expanding to 26 for 2020, that leaves 8 still to be included. With some certainties and probables these should/could include:
- Walker Buehler
- Alex Verdugo
- Will Smith
- Matt Beaty
- Gavin Lux
- Caleb Ferguson
- Dustin May
- Tony Gonsolin
Others that will be considered:
- Adam Kolarek
- Dylan Floro
- Edwin Rios
What Next?
1.Many of the above will not be on the roster come March 26 (opening day against the Giants), but projecting who those will be, will be all over the map by many. Let’s assume that the final roster additions will cost $3.5MM, leaving $50MM for increase in salaries before reaching the CBT. That leaves room for at least one elite FA, and my choice would be Gerrit Cole. Pitchers like Gerrit Cole do not become available all that often, but when they do, the Billionaire Boys Club needs to take advantage. If Cole wants to go to NYY (his childhood favorite team), you know they will be very active in their pursuit. He grew up in LAA’s backyard, and they need pitching badly, so they will be in pursuit. I also believe that San Diego will go hard after him. They need that signature pitcher before MacKenzie Gore makes it to the Show, and they have shown that they are not afraid to spend. Houston has said that they may not be able to re-sign him, but there is going to be more than a couple of high roller teams that will be players for Cole. The problem will be that Cole is a Scott Boras client and he will probably not sign early. It is entirely possible that some team will wait too long on Cole and lose out on others. Make Cole an offer he cannot refuse, but the Dodgers should not be outbid. With Cole and Buehler at the top of the rotation, that will be better than any top duo including Scherzer and Strasburg.
2. Even with the 26 player roster, the max roster will be 28 in September. This will make it even more important for teams to have versatile players that can play multiple positions. That could increase the value of Kike’ Hernandez or CT3. With Matt Beaty showing that he is definitely a ML player, Kike’ or CT3 can become available. Do the Dodgers need both? Probably not, and that would free up at least $5MM.
3. Ross Stripling is absolutely a trade candidate and for his sake, I hope he is moved. Just as was Alex Wood, Ross Stripling is a favorite of mine. Wood did not make sense to hold on to, and neither does Ross. They both need to go to a team where they have a chance to be successful starting pitchers. Ross is projected to earn $2.3MM in arbitration. What level of player/prospect would be returned for Ross?
4. It is not arguable that both 2019 FA did not earn their salaries. Both Kelly and Pollock should be considered trade candidates, but how much trade value will they bring in return. I am not as high on AJ as 59Arrow is, but I am not as down on him as many others are. He is injury prone, but he is more than capable of going off and being that RH bat the team needs. While I am ambivalent about AJ, I am not on Joe Kelly. The Dodgers should do whatever they can to move Kelly. I do not blame him for the Game 5 loss. He should never have been out there for the 2nd inning. That is all on Doc. Kelly pitched in multiple innings 8 times in 2019; 4 in his worst month, April. He pitched two games of 1.1 and 1.2 IP in August, but because of some alleged physical ailment in September, he only pitched .2 innings after 9/18 before the NLDS. He did his job in the 9th, and should not have come out for the 10th. I do not think Kelly will ever be accepted by Dodger fans. He was a -0.6 WAR pitcher in 2019, but I think he can be a 1.0 WAR pitcher, thus earning his salary. LAD may have to include cash considerations, but maybe he can be moved to a team with less pressure than LAD or BOS. Ken Giles is projected to make $8.4MM. Maybe two years of Joe Kelly and a lottery ticket or two for Ken Giles. But Toronto will probably hold on to Giles and try to move him at the deadline where they will probably get more without Kelly’s contract. But my optimistic brain thinks that Kelly will be good in Toronto and become a valuable trade chit at the deadline as well. Give him a chance to close in Toronto and see what he can do. Ken Giles scares me, but so does Joe Kelly. Turn the page.
5. I think everyone knows I like Austin Barnes, but again, I do not think he will be accepted by Dodger fans. He has three years of team control and is a good defensive catcher with elite framing skills. He may not bring back Jeter Downs or Jo Jo Gray, but maybe a couple at the next tier or a good MiLB reliever. I would consider moving him, but that would require another backup catcher. Russell Martin is an obvious choice, but I would like to see the Dodgers look at Stephen Vogt. The downside for Vogt is that he is yet another LHH. That does not concern me as much for a backup catcher, as there will be plenty of opportunities for Vogt to relieve Smith against tough RHP. Martin knows the Dodgers pitchers, and Keibert Ruiz needs another year at AAA before he should be considered. I like a veteran backup catcher, and Martin and Vogt fill that role.
6. While this trade talk of Belli and Seager is crazy talk (IMO), it is obvious that neither can be counted on to be the Reggie Jackson for the Dodgers in the post season. Who can be? Some are talking about Nicholas Castellanos, but he has three playoff games in his career, and they were not pretty. Maybe he is the missing piece, but maybe he is a RH version of Belli. I think it is a good chance that JDM opts out of his contract, and I would prefer him to Castellanos. I recognize that Castellanos is 4.5 years younger than JDM, but I want a player that has performed in the playoffs rather than a younger player who has not. Castellanos is not a difference maker for the Dodgers to make the playoffs, but is he a difference maker in the playoffs? JDM is a more likely choice (IMO).
7. If the Dodgers choose to sign Castellanos, JDM, or any other RHH OF, Pollock will obviously need to be moved. I do not believe that his salary is out of line, but the return may not be as much as they want. Regardless, the Dodgers may need to make that change and look for the difference maker FOR THE PLAYOFFS. Getting to the playoffs does not seem to be much of a concern, but once they are there, HOPING that they will perform does not seem to work out well for LAD. The Billionaire Boys Club needs to step out of their comfort zone and show the fans that they want to win and not just clip coupons.
8. The Dodger management has already said that they are still hoping for change by bringing back Doc Roberts. Managers make mistakes. They all do. But it sure seems that Doc makes much more than his share and shows no signs of changing his approach. I can only think of one decision that he has made in the playoffs the last 4 years that has not been a mistake, and that is starting Walker Buehler in Game 1 in the 2019 NLDS and having him available to start Game 5. Every other move turned out to be a big mistake over his 4 years in the post season. Management does not seem to want to force change, but instead wants to prove Einstein wrong by continually doing the same thing and hoping for a different outcome.
9. The Cubs are a prime opportunity for the Dodgers to talk with. Both Kris Bryant or Javy Baez seem to be available for the right price. Some want Rendon, but I think it is more likely than not that he returns to Washington. And while there is room to sign TWO significant elite FA and still stay under $220MM, I see no sign that says they would consider it. If Rendon is not available, Kris Bryant would look nice in a Dodger uni. Remember, Bryant can play LF, RF, and 1B besides 3B. He does not have to solely play 3B in 2020. After 2020, 3B would be his as JT will probably be more of a Chase Utley for LAD than a regular 3B. Before Castellanos or JDM, I would like to see the Dodgers make a concerted effort for Bryant. The Cubs need to make a change as well.
10. I do not know if it is the Billionaire Boys Club that is tying AF’s hands, but if it is, I would look for AF to leave. If AF does stay, then he needs to change his approach. Get away from being safe and being satisfied with winning the Division. Go bold and bring in the players that can win a championship. If it costs $230MM so be it. If the Dodgers put an elite team on the field for 2020, how great would it look if they had multiple All-Stars for their ASG at Dodger Stadium. They need to put on a show with their Dodger stars.
It is clear to every Dodger fan that status quo is not the answer. Shake things up. Change the dynamics. If it costs, so be it. The Dodgers have the money, the Dodgers have the farm system. They cannot hold on to all of the prospects. Trading some does not have to cripple the future of the team. In fact, most believe that it will not. At some point they have to be bold and go for it. IF NOT 2020, WHEN?
Dodgers need to be more RH Batter balanced. Do a straight trade of Seager for Bryant. I like Seager but he probably would not be signed and struggled horribly in postseason and has been injury prone. Bryant brings more flexibility in that he can play more positions even do he is not that great defender but seems more athletic and faster than Seager and with more Home Run Pop even do he also has had injury issues but would be a fair deal. I would prefer Mookie Betts but it would be great if they could get both which i doubt. But i would trade Urias, Joc, Kelly , A prospect for Mookie Betts and someone else.
I would not re sign Rich Hill. I see Wainwright and Cole Hamels would be available in FA and i woiuld sign one of them to 1 year deal incentive type contract instead of Hill. I like Hill but too many injuries . Only way i would sign Hill is if he accepts league minimum deal. I would non tender Baez,Garcia, Floro, Alexander, etc. I would keep Kolarek. Ship Kelly for anything that you can get even paying part of his salary and get new arms for bullpen . Team needs change.
Why would the Dodgers want Hamels and Wainright? They are #4 or #5 Starters. That ship has sailed… those guys are old.
The kid gloves will be off Urias next year and he is a legitimate #2 starter.
The Dodgers need to get more L=R balance, so I would trade Pollock, Pederson, and Seager for Bryant (and throw in $20 million). Next, I would sign Castellanos and put him in LF… and hope Verdugo is healthy.
Finally, I would go big-time after Cole. That’s my dope-fiend move.
Lineup:
1. Verdugo RF
2. Bryant 3B
3. Muncy 2B
4. Bellinger CF
5. Castellanos LF
6. Lux SS
7. Turner 1B
8. Smith C
Rotation:
1. Cole
2. Buehler
3. Urias
4. May
5. Gonsolin, Stripling, Maeda
Trade Urias this guy does not have the mentality. Did you see him on game 4 ? May has more upside and more mentality that this guy. Urias is fat and lazy and injury prone. Trade him. I am not saying Hamels or Wainwright will be top signings but i would rather sign one of those than Hill again.
Are you trading Kershaw away or what ? That wont happen. And you cant say Urias is a number 2 starter when he has not proven he can stay healthy or has ever thrown more than 100 Innings in MLB. Hopefully he is but is not a sure thing. I hope he can start working out and get ready instead or eating tacos and getting tatoos.
Who would want Kershaw now as his value now is at all time low as he has an enormous salary and has proven he is not a good postseason pitcher and has declined velocity. And he has good numbers this year 16-5 3.03 ERA 189 Ks. But in postseason did not showed up. And what about RYU ? He could win NL Cy Young award. Only thing i agree with your post is trading Seager and Pollock !!
What did you do with Kershaw?
Ok Guys. Kershaw is not even on the roster for 2020 according to MT. He either will retire , be traded, miss the whole season, or send to AAA.
Wow Mark, I didn’t expect you to turn on Seager after telling us all year that Lux is nowhere near as good as he is. Seager for Bryant straight up would be a rip off. Get a grip. Is Clayton “Still an Ace” Kershaw in the pen all the sudden? Or, did you turn on him too?
Wow, you took a few days off and this is what you come up with? Did you spend the last few days in bed with a case of McCallan?
Wow you are batting Tuner 7th ?? Turner was one of the few hitters that showed up in nlds and maybe the best pure hitter on the team. What kind of lineup is that. Turner had an excellent year how will he be batting behind Lux. Lux is not even a sure thing after his poor showing at the plate against tough pitchers he might have to start at AAA or bat 8th at first.
Mark, it’s an intriguing lineup. However, that is a very stiff price to pay for Bryant. His defense is a wash with Corey’s, and his bat, although RH, is also a wash. Is Corey coachable? This is my main question about him. I like Bryant and if it’s a matter of getting a RH bat, Castellanos would make a good showing except for SO proclivity. He and Muncy combine for almost 300 SO’s! His defense is probably not as bad as some think. If we want to get better defensively, I’m not sure Bryant is the answer. As I’ve suggested before, moving Corey to 3B seems reasonable. Working on his batting, Van Scoyoc should make him a priority. He needs more patience, more walks, and more power. His speed is also questionable. Same size as Belli, he hardly steals any bases. Would love to see Verdugo turn into a real leadoff hitter. I also don’t see them trading Joc, not that I wouldn’t mind. If AF leaves, all bets will be off.
I agree with most of your comments AC. Go after Cole. We need two # 1 pitchers. Kershaw can be a 4/5. Trade Kike. Taylor can play SS, LF, CF, RF, and 2nd. He is pretty good with consistent play. Sign Martin for one more year. Give Ruiz one more year at AAA. If you get a right handed bat for the outfield then Pollock and Joc have to go. Stripling, Barnes, and Rios need to be traded. They all need a new start.
I will be disappointed if Doc returns. He does well for 162 games, but is a complete dud in the playoffs. I have seen the same horror movie for four years now. I see no improvement. I do not see how Doc and Jansen can exist on the same team. I think Doc may take himself out and sign with another team.
I would sign Hill for another year and put him in the bull pen.
You cannot blame Roberts for all. Simply as that : Kershaw did not perform, Kelly did not perform, Bellinger and Seager did not hit at all. Is the players fault too they were overconfident and did not had a sense of urgency !! Roberts cannot pitch or hit !! Roberts had no confidence in Jansen as he has been bad in postseason before specially the last two World Series was horrible. Blame is on AF : He signed both Kelly and Pollock who did nothing in postseason and even during season as Pollock played 86 games and Kelly had mediocre numbers and was a wreck all year. AF should go. Go to Boston. Enough is enough. The Blame is on the players who could not perform and FO who has not signed the right players.
Who do you blame when none of your players show up and play with a sense of urgency?
Why not god? He gets too much praise, IMO.
I do not blame Doc for Seager and Beli not hitting. But I do blame him for Krshaw and Kelly pitching when they should not have.
And is there evidence that Freese was incapable of playing due to injury? If not, he absolutely needed to be in at 1st base. How does he sit being 4 for 8.
That was the first thing I said when they released the lineup. On the other hand, you can look at his lofty numbers and his quick retirement announcement as evidence. With those numbers, I doubt he would retire unless he was really hurting.
Great post AC. I agree that Gerrit Cole should be at the top of the Dodgers’ shopping list. And though I would love to have Rendon, I can see other alternatives like Kris Bryant being alternatives.
There will be lots of players available via FA and through trades. Probably a bunch that you may have overlooked. But as you suggested, now is as good a time as any to go bold.
Wow! Great column. Lots of info, agree pretty much with everything. I’m guessing that the Dodgers will pursue an elite free agent, maybe with a lot of money, but shorter length. Something similar to Bryce Harper. I totally agree that player should be Cole, may pursue an up and coming relief pitcher or two through trades. I’m guessing management and ownership is in shock and since this is a big year, All-Star game/Stadium improvements and all, they may want to make a major signing as a statement to the fan base. The Dodgers aren’t trading Seager. Look for him to have a big year in ‘20.
Carlos, I don’t have time right now to comment on most of what you wrote, but I would caution that you take into account the new 3 hitter minimum that pitchers have to face before suggesting that the Dodgers sign Kolarek or any loogy. I suspect that given the new rule, pitchers like him may go the way of the dodo.
Washington has offered Rendon a contract but it’s with deferred money. Bryant would be an interesting trade.
Read someplace that Snell could be available. If theirs any truth to this I could see AF working some deal with Tampa as he’s done in the past.
If Snell is truly available, I can see AF go hard after him. But I am not sure why Tampa would trade him. They have four more years of control over him. They were one game away from defeating the Astros in the ALDS. With Glasgow and Snell, that is the start of a very good duo at the top of the rotation. With Morton that makes a good #3. Tampa is right there and with 6 top 100 prospects, they have the farm to make something happen. But , yeah, if he is available, go bold.
If Cody and Cory played at their normal levels in this last series we would still be in it. I believe that both just ran out of gas. Cory coming back from 2 injuries and Cody wasn’t Cody the last month, I think he was just worn down. I certainly wouldn’t trade either one of them. They are still very young players. I look for a strong season from Cory and hope that Cody can have another great season and carry it through the post season.
I agree we need to sign Cole. We need to have a top 2 comparable to the Nats. I love Clayton but he is no longer a sure thing.
No one here has even mentioned trading Cody Bellinger ever!That would be dumb right now. But you cant probably not sign both long term and Bellinger is the most complete player and superstar . Seager has been slowed by injuries but also has not shown enough now. So Seager would be the one to trade in my opinion. Dodgers need to sign Bellinger long term ASAP.
Oh man, this is going to be a long off-season. Carlos, it seems like you should just make a list of the 3 players you want to keep and just say trade everyone else for new players.
The team won 106 games, so we obviously need a complete tear down so we can get rid of all our players that are just about to hit their prime years.
AC, I had to double-take and blink my eyes a couple of times and check to see who wrote this article. Between saying that Doc made only one good decision and that the team should blow past the CBT, I couldn’t tell who wrote this. Those are two things I was blasted for saying all LAST off-season. Maybe I’m not as stupid as I am.
Let’s keep this simple folks. Same needs as the trade deadline. A guy that has experience closing games and a right handed, middle of the order bat.
There’s probably a few guys that are worthy for the rotation. Cole, Wheeler, Odorizzi and our own Ryu. Cole is the obvious choice and Wheeler could be the next Cole.
Now, what is all this nonsensical talk about trading Urias? Is this stemming from his non-incident? It certainly can’t be because of his performance. File him and Cory in the same folder. Both are young. Both played this year following injuries. Both were very good players for us this year.
It’s hard for us to remember that Julio is a 22 year old kid. He’s just one year older than Lux. He missed two full years of development and the Dodgers have dicked him around for years now, always sticking to their plan, except for when it comes to Urias. In fact, if they would have stuck to the plan and worked him in as a starter we would probably still be playing right now.
About his incident. He and his girlfriend had a day off, so he took her out for the day in Beverly Hills. When it was time to leave, she was a little belligerent, probably as a result of too many adult beverages. He had to make a decision, walk away and leave her in the parking lot, or try to get he into the car. That’s a no win situation right there. We all know what happened next. He’s 22 freaking years old. Give him a freaking break!
Same thing with Corey. He was not himself all year coming off of two surgeries, he still put up a (Pick your favorite stat and put it here). He was still freaking good, especially for a SS even though he looked too skinny all year. Just to put this into perspective. Javier Baez was only a little better than Cory. Baez plays in much more of a hitters park and wasn’t coming off injury and didn’t miss all of the previous season. Baez has 4 full seasons (and two partial seasons) in the MLB and 2 of the 4, he OPS’d < 800. Seager has 3 full years and has never OPS's < 800.
Top Free Agents to pursue…
Cole Wheeler Odorizzi or Ryu
Casty / Rendon / JDM / Abreu
Will Smith
Then you have a bunch of spare parts to trade away for more prospects and bullpen help.
59, I try to stay positive as long as I can. With the salary and CBT, I never had a problem with the Dodgers surpassing the threshold. I just never thought they would, and if it were not for the vesting incentives for Kersh and Kenta, they would not have surpassed it in 2019. But IF the Billionaire Boys Club wants to win, and not just count coupons, then they need to go bold. That is my 2020 mantra. GO BOLD.
With Doc, I have always wanted to believe. But he just does not get the playoffs. He overthinks and overmanages. He does not let the game slow down and come to him. He wants to force it. That is not a good leader. I do not know who would be a good manager, but it is irrelevant now as it has already been stated that Doc will return. Next season, I will support him as long as he is the manager.
I cut Kershaw…
No, I am joking. Kershaw is still better than Wainright or Hamels.
This would be the real rotation:
1. Cole
2. Buehler
3. Urias
4. Kershaw
5. May
I am not eager to trade Seager. I do think he will return to All-Star status in 2020, but the Dodgers have to get more L – R Balance.
Urias has really only had the shoulder injury and the Dodgers have deliberately held him back for several years. He’s only 23 and is not a reliever. He had a 2.49 ERA this year and the league hit .201 in 2019 against him. Only a handful of player were better and they are names like Cole, Verlander, Flaherty, DeGrom, and Strasburg. I think Julio shines in 2020. He will pitch at an All-Star Level.
Nice article AC. Agree with you on most things.
1, I always have loved Stripling who like Buehler is a very intelligent pitcher. Guess that is why I liked Greinke WHEN he was with the Dodgers NOT because of his personality but because of how he studied pitching. Strip seems to have the same mentality and wish the best for him. I am not comparing ability with Stripling and Greinke, so please do not throw anything at me. Well, if you must, make it marshmallows.
2. Trade Kelly and some others and go for Cole, Harper and or JDM. .
3. Keep Martin. He would be such a great influence on the young catchers.
4. Do not trade Corey, Bellinger and the young rookies. They were part of the success of winning the division this year. I see great things coming from them next year.
5. There is never a “good time” to make some changes, so do it now.
Unfortunately, the Dodgers do not exist in a vacuum. There are other teams. And the Yankees have built themselves a juggernaut which might just win five titles in the next eight years or so. Look at that lineup they put out there last night. And guys like Voit, Hicks,and Bird are out. They are additional trade pieces, or could start. Imagine if Stanton comes back next year and hits 45 home runs, as he well might. The bullpen is superb. The only slight issue is the depth of the starting staff. And as you note, they will go after Cole, and if they get him, no one is going to touch them.
This is depressing, but we could see it happening. It’s not like the Yankees cheated, although it was pretty tricky of them to trade Chapman for Torres as a short-term rental, and then have him come back as a free agent. But it was not a secret, the Cubs knew what the price was, and they desperately needed a closer. We don’t do things like that, mostly because we have very few stars, do not sign major free agents, and we do not have major trade pieces as a result. Torres was a budding superstar, and the Yankees identified him and got him.
Brian Cashman has systematically built another powerhouse, after the five titles in the last decade, by going after key pieces via free agency or trade, with a few homegrown products built in. I am not an expert on the Yankees, but I think these are some of the players whom Cashman picked up from other clubs: Torres, Stanton, Gregorius, LeMahieu, Encarnacion, Urshela, Paxton, Sabathia (now retiring), Chapman, Britton, Ottavino. They got the coveted Tanaka from Japan via draft. I’ve probably missed a couple That is a lot of players whom they obtained via the free agent market or very well chosen trades. Their homegrown stars are limited to Judge, Sanchez, Severino, Andujar.
The Yankees, certainly under Cashman, and the Steinbrenners, build to win titles. They have a fallow period at times, and they they built another powerhouse. The Dodgers lineup does not compare with theirs. The difference is that they go boldly after free agents and we do not. They built a very strong bullpen, while we almost haphazardly go into each season by grabbing a few relief pitchers who had a good year or two in the past but are not wanted by their club., and we hope that they will somehow regain past form, which they usually do not. We act as if this is enough, that it will all work out during the season. We pass on every major free agent or trade possibility, even those who might have an affinity for playing for the Dodgers, like Yelich or Stanton. Some of the current and upcoming free agents would rather play for the Yankees or someone else, and so we cannot just decide at some point that we are now going to get the big names. You get your chances, and you take them or you pass on them, and then you’re stuck, hoping that your minor league talent will turn into great players.
I find this very dispiriting, because I know that the Dodgers are not going to be as good as the Yankees next year or the five years after that. All we can do is hope to win the NL, no easy task, either. Dodgers fans invariably overrate their players and prospects, that may well be the case with most fan bases, but it is very noticeable here, and it has gone on for decades. We have Buehler, who is a legitimate great star in the making. We have Bellinger, who might be one, or might be a .280 hitter with power, who is stymied by top playoff pitching. The rest of the roster has prospects, some of whom might be stars, most of whom will not; diamonds in the rough that we have found who do have an upside limit, and then the odds and ends which the ownership, through Friedman, picks up because they are relatively cheap. Why didn’t we get LeMahieu, what an addition he would have been. Why not Yelich two years ago? The Yankees are smarter, and more willing to take bold risks, and make things happen. They are probably heading for their 28th title, we have six. To actually win more titles and not just pine over them, we would need an ownership which was willing to go all-out, within some limits, of course, to build the strongest roster around. It is virtually impossible to match the Yankees roster now, but we could start to try if we actually coveted titles, and actually tried to be the best franchise in baseball, not just the one with the nicest stadium or hot dogs. I greatly doubt that we will be taking such a course, and that’s much more upsetting for loyal and aware fans than just losing a key playoff game.
Brian Cashman is the best GM/President of Baseball Operations in MLB. You missed Gardner, Romine, Holder, and Betances as home grown. But even Cashman has made bonehead signings…Jacoby Ellsbury. But your point is still valid.
Two years ago, before Ozuna, Stanton, and Yelich were traded, I was up front and loud for Christian Yelich. I was met with resistance from many who wanted Ozuna and then Stanton before Yelich. Does Yelich do the same in LA as he has done in Milwaukee? We will never know but I would have liked to have found out. At the same time, I was up front and loud that they should have traded for Cole. Houston stole him, and the Dodgers could have done much better (IMO). The one 2019 FA that I was most aggressive in wanting was DJLM, and was advised that he was on the wrong side of 30 and couldn’t hit out of Coors. Wrong. But they didn’t do that either. But one thing we will never know in trades is who was asked for in return for either Yelich or Cole. I think the Dodgers could have done better, but would either the Fish or Bucs taken what AF had offered even if more than what they received?
The Dodgers have a chance this winter to go bold. They have the $$$$ and they have the prospects. Will they play it safe, or take a chance. There will be players that I would like for them to pursue. I have already brought up Bryan Reynolds from Pittsburgh, and someone just brought up Blake Snell. The Dodgers have the ability to make both trades, but why would Pittsburgh or Tampa Bay make those trades. There has to be two willing trade partners, and we still do not know what was required from the Dodgers from the other teams.
AC, I appreciate you more positive stance: “Let’s do something.” I hope we do, but that is asking ownership to go against its obvious grain. They do have more freed up money this year, so I expect they will make some moves. I don’t expect us to get Cole, because either Houston will find a way to sign him, or the Yankees will, or someone willing to go very high to win the auction. It just takes one owner who wants to go all-out to try to win a title We will see.
You are due credit for picking out LeMahieu. I wasn’t even thinking much about him during last year’s offseason, but of course he would have been great at the top of the lineup, as we have no real leadoff hitter. Yes, some said he was a product of Coors. But there we have the difference; the Yankees are willing to take that shot, as with Britton whom apparently the Dodgers did not pursue because they were worried about his arm issues. And the interesting thing is that NYY may have made a mistake with Stanton, and did with Ellsbury, but they do so many good things that it doesn’t seem to matter.
I think that we need major changes, but that’s almost inconceivable with this ownership. If Ryu leaves (and I don’t know that we would want to sign him for four years), we really need two or maybe three new starting pitchers, to go with Buehler. I don’t trust Urias, and who knows if May is actually ready to start every five days. And I know we have Kershaw, but I am not looking forward to seeing him on the mound for 30 starts. The bullpen needs a major overhaul, there is not one reliable pitcher on it. We need another good right-handed hitter, and we may well need someone to replace Turner, who misses more and more games each year. Freese will be missed as fill-in insurance on the infield. I do fear, as you suggested, that our window may be closing. The way the season ended may have been a major sign that we are not good enough as presently constituted and run. Players like Taylor, Barnes, Baez, Stripling have shown their limitations. Pollock is just not that good. Kelly is unreliable, and hence not a plus. Whom do we actually have on this roster to strongly rely on for next season? Buehler, probably Bellinger, half a season or so of Turner, Muncy. Anyone else?
I do not blame Kelly at all. He was horrible early this year. However, at the end he was pretty good. Asking Kelly to pitch two innings was stupid. Asking Kershaw to relieve was bad. I agree some players had a bad series. However we were leading 3-1 going into the 8th. From that moment on Doc blew it. We should of won that game. Look what the Washington pitchers are doing to the Cardinals.
Do not trade Bellinger or Seager. We have a good group of young experienced players. We have a window of 3-5 years. That is why Doc as manager bothers me.
I agree with AC. Doc forces the issue. This is what I think Doc does. He plans ahead how he wants to manage the game. That is great. Then he does not adjust as the game goes on. He said he was going to piggyback Kershaw with Buehler. Fine if Buehler got into trouble early. Once we got to the 8th, Kershaw should not of been an option. We had Maeda, Baez, Jansen, Kelly and Urias to finish the last two innings.
You do not blame Kelly at all ? This guy could not get an out in the 10th inning and is being overpaid 8 Million a year and had a terrible season just pitching 50 innings of 4.50 + ERA. I agree with you that he should had not been on the mound in that inning. But what a bad performance ! That was the Dodgers season trusting in AF great signing this offseason. Guy showed no grit at all.
Funny stuff today.
Gonna be a long off season. I would love to have Cole but no one mentions Trevor Bauer who also played at UCLA and was drafted in the 1st round soon after Cole. He is an innings eating stud and needs a change of scenery and while not cheap he could be a difference maker and fits the Dodgers MO. Nice post BTW AC.
Wheeler too.
.288/.348/.537/.885
That is Pollock’s second half slash line. I want to see if he can have a healthy year before I give up on that. BTW that’s about 50 points higher than Verdugo’s “incredible” first half.
Muncy can play 2B for a year if we choose to keep Turner and sign Rendon. Lux would have to take a back seat for another year and ride the shuttle for injuries at 2B/SS.
Verdugo can be a 4th outfielder for a year if we sign Casty or another RH Outfielder.
One of Kike or CT3 have to go to prevent Doc from having both in the lineup when his back is against the wall. It seems like it would be easier to get a better manager.
Goodbye Joc, we’ll miss you. Just no room for a left handed 3 true outcome outfielder.
Bryant will NOT be traded this off-season. They’re moving on from Maddon, not to start a rebuild by trading their best player, but to give it one last hurrah. We’ll revisit Bryant at the trade deadline.
59, I didn’t just make it up about Bryant. The Cubs know they are in a fix and need some financial restraint after all of their FA blunders. They need pitching (not SS). They have Baez and Nico Hoerner for SS. If the options for Anthony Rizzo and Jose Quintana are picked up, the Cubs will have commitments for 10 players and player benefits totaling $156.2MM. They have 7 arbitration eligible players, and if as expected they non tender Addison Russell, that will leave 6 with a projected arbitration salaries of $43.2MM. That leaves about $8.6MM for the remainder of the roster without surpassing the CBT. The Cubs have already stated that their goal is to get under the CBT this year. They need pitching and more pitching. They have also discussed keeping Castellanos. Bryant is scheduled to make $18.5MM in arbitration. That will free up some for pitching. Some Cubs pundits are projecting Bryant and Baez could be moved saving $27MM to $28MM. The return for Bryant and Baez could go a long way for filling the weak farm. If I were a Cubs fan, I would not be in favor of moving Bryant or Baez. But it sure looks like in order for them to be economically sound and still put a reasonably decent team on the field, that Bryant is a logical choice to move. It fits in the Dodgers wheelhouse. The Dodgers can spend on Cole and absorb Bryant’s salary and still be under the CBT with smaller moves. Not saying it will or should happen. It is just conceivable and possible.
Did you see his NLDS line 0-13,11 ks , .000, .000, .000. Seen enough !
Is there any reporting on Friedman’s Monday annoucement?
Sourced reporting? Not silly blog speculation?
I hope he goes to Boston. Time to go ! This guy left Roberts all alone at press conference. I am sure he got Roberts to put Kelly on roster and on that situation in the game. Let him sign there. No need to overpay for a front office like this who signed Kelly and Pollock and traded Yordan Alvarez ! Go fix the Boston Red Sox
If you are serious, you are seriously ill.
There is absolutely no way the Dodgers are going to blow up a young 106 win team by trading players like Seager, a player they want to keep long term. I’m not sure they want to trade Kelly, a pitcher with great stuff and huge upside, who just needs to find consistency. Pollock was very productive at times, just needs to stay away from freak injuries. Had an absolutely terrible playoff, but he still can be part of a solution. Had a lot of big hits this summer. I do expect the Dodgers to do something big and look for opportunities in the trade market. I do think a player like Reynolds makes sense, but that, of course comes down to whether a club like Pittsburg is willing to trade him.
Wow, some of you guys want to make big changes to a team that won 106 games and if not for Dave Roberts would be beating up the Cardinals right now and looking forward to being in the world series for the third consecutive time.
A lot of you want to get Gerrit Cole and I do too, I didn’t mention him in my what to do now post the other day because I didn’t know if the Dodgers could afford him. But it seems like they can, so if that is true then the Dodgers absolutely should do whatever it takes to get him. He’s an ace starting pitcher.
The next priority should be to build a bullpen that can function properly under the new 3 batter minimum rule. Teams who build that type of bullpen will have a huge advantage over teams who do not. The Dodgers only have 3 guys that in their careers have been good against both RHB and LHB and they are Gonsolin (Small sample), Baez, and Jansen (but he has his problems now). That’s it. You guys liked Maeda in the bullpen and I do to, but in his career he has had problems with left handed batters, but with a manager that knows this about Maeda can work around that flaw because Maeda dominates RHB. I’m not sure Dave Roberts can. Therefore in my what to do now post the other day I suggested getting Ken Giles, Will Harris and Aaron Bummer. Don’t take that 3 batter minimum rule lightly because that rule is a game changer and the Dodgers need to get prepared for it.
Some of you want to make big changes to the offense, again the Dodgers won 106 games. The Dodgers had the best team offense OPS in the national league despite Dave Roberts bone headed lineups that included Hernandez and Taylor starting over other guys with better stats. Despite not using Pederson and Pollock as a platoon as stats suggest should have happened. Same goes for a Seager/Taylor platoon at SS.
Guys we just need to get Gerrit Cole and if another ace starting pitcher is available then go get him and then fix the damn bullpen so it can function properly under the new 3 batter minimum rule.
Is it a done deal that Dave Roberts is our manager next year? Because I have not read any confirmed report, I’ve only read 1 article that says there are “2 sources close to the decision makers” that say Roberts will continue to be the Dodgers manager.
The question of Doc returning: Someone said that Friedman will be holding a meeting with the press tomorrow morning. I’m sure that question will be addressed but if AF doesn’t give a firm “yes” it could ultimately wind up being “no”. Of course, he also needs to deal with the question of whether he’ll be back himself.
The front office needs to make a commitment to Urias during Spring Training: you are a starting pitcher for 2020 and we will not use you out of the bullpen. Let him have his chance to mature and shine as a starter. He is a very valuable asset but needs to be used properly.
Managers – for the past few years the “in” thing has been to hire guys with no past managerial experience. Sometimes that has worked, other times it has not, but it’s the way a lot of the stat oriented front offices have gone lately. The pendulum may be about to swing back in the other direction. It’s very possible that on opening day 2020, the following guys will be managing major league teams: Joe Girardi, Buck Showalter, Joe Maddon and Dusty Baker (Phillies will be interviewing him). Is it time to bring back Lasorda?
Sadly, Urias didn’t even get to 100 innings this year. He STILL won’t be ready for a full starter’s workload next year. The more I think about all of this, the more I think AF and Doc should both be fired. The 106 wins says otherwise, a cooler head would say. What a conundrum this team is.
I dont know why all here are so high on Urias like you said he has not even throw 100 Innings and now he is an ACE ?? Trade him to BOS as part of a Mookie Betts deal or to the Mets for Thor.
I think they have stated that Urias will be part of the rotation next year.
Gammons reported that some on the team think he could be a closer, but he’s so young. I imagine he’ll be in the rotation. Too much talent.
2 FA signings that would obviously only cost money and not prospects.
Jake Odorizzi 15-7 3.51ERA – All Star for the 1st time – 29 years old.
Josh Donaldson – maybe a one year deal.
He hit 37 HRs, 94RBIs – and an OPS of .900
JT will miss many games – like this season, and he can always play a bit of 1B.
He could be the big RH bat we need.
I was all over Odorizzi 3 years ago when he was with Tampa. Somebody here actually remembered me pushing for Jake. The problem was that I was pushing for the two Jakes; Odorizzi and McGee from the Rays. McGee has not been stellar with the Rox. I liked Odorizzi because I thought that he would be a good #4 or #5. This is the first year Odorizzi has flashed top of the rotation “stuff”. The Twins have said they are going to go hard for pitching, and I think that Odorizzi will be on the top of that list. I do see Jake in play for the Dodgers.
I liked Wheeler last year at the trade deadline, and he could be a decent fall back after Cole, but I do not believe he is at the Buehler/Cole/Verlander/de Grom/Scherzer/Strasburg level. I cannot believe the NYM will let him go without a fight.
I do not see Josh Donaldson signing another one year deal. The only position Donaldson can play is 3B.
Same old, same old.
Good post AC! Lots to digest. I’m glad that I’m not the one making the decision. I think the first order of business for the Dodgers will be the front office. Namely, will AF stay or move on to Boston. Even though he is the President of baseball Operations, he still answers to Stan Kasten. AF may have a desire to be “the man” and if he does he may very well move on. If he does it is possible that Josh Byrne fills AF’s position and Jeffrey Kingston or Brandon Gomes becomes the GM. Raul Ibanez, could also be promoted to the GM position. On the other hand, AF could choose to stay to erase the perspective that he can not assemble a team that can win the WS. Once the front office is squared away, I think they’ll work on the coaching staff. Honeycutt may retire or be moved to the front office and we may lose a coach or two like last season.
As for the players, we know Freese is not returning and I don’t see any scenario where Bellinger or Seager are traded. Obviously we need to strengthen the bullpen. In my opinion, that becomes easier if Jansen chooses to opt-out of his contract. That frees up a boat load of money that can be used on pitching. I don’t think we cn look to the minors for any immediate help. De Geus possibly, but I think he is a year away. The others just aren’t ready. A really, really long shot that I have my eye on is Justin Bruihl, who has done a great job since being signed.
Top trade candidates are: Austin Barnes, Ross Stripling (though I hope not), Edwin Rios, Yimi Garcia and Dennis Santana. I would not resign Rich Hill and Russ Martin only comes back if they view him as filling the Utley, Freese mentor role.
Fans from LAdodgertalk i got call from AF to get Kelly in game as he said this guy shut us down last season in the WS and he is due for these moments. I just follow orders that was the game plan. Wait till next year ! We are gaining experience
Nice, Carlos. Not true however.
A rookie pitcher can look good against the DODGERS doesn’t mean you sign him to a multi year contract.
1 – Front office: I assume Friedman is returning. Will he replace Zaidi with a new GM to add to the management team?
2 – Field management: If Roberts is returning as has been reported, will someone else take the fall for his bad decision making? Geren and Honeycutt are potential fall guys as bench coach and pitching coach, respectively. Do they kick Honeycutt upstairs and make Mark Prior pitching coach?
3 – Rotation: So at this point Buehler, Kershaw and Maeda are the only sure things. I can’t see Hill returning at 40 after a season where he couldn’t make 60 ip. Ryu is 33 and has had 3 arm surgeries. (Tommy John in 2004, and then shoulder and elbow surgeries in 2015/16). I hope that the Braintrust has learned its lessons about signing the old and infirm to 3+ year contracts.
This leaves (on the current roster) Stripling, Urias, May and Gonsolin. The Dodgers made it clear last year that they don’t want Ross in the rotation. He is a #4 or 5 guy based on stuff. Urias, May and Gonsolin won’t be available to throw 200 innings next year – they will be on innings limits.
This seems to leave an opening for a free agent or trade acquisition for the rotation. The Braintrust won’t sign the likes of Gerrit Cole – too expensive, too many years. If they acquire someone, it will likely be someone most here haven’t thought of.
Bullpen: All but the most loyalty-blinded fan identified the ‘pen as the Dodgers’ achilles heel this season. Some here thought that Joe Kelly would save the day. By the end of the year he had a typical Kelly season – good for a month or 2, horrible for a month or 2. He ended the season with a -.6 WAR. Like Kerhsaw, Jansen is no longer the pitcher he once was. The rest of the bullpen is mediocre at best.
The Braintrust has, in the past, assembled it’s ‘pen out of spare parts, hoping that they will strike gold like it did with Brandon Morrow in 2017. If neither Kelly nor Jansen can be relied on to close, then what do they do to bolster the ‘pen?
Position players: The Dodgers are too left-handed (Bellinger, Seager, Pederson, Muncy, Lux, Verdugo, Beaty.) Pollock was supposed to help with the balance. He is injury prone and was mediocre most of the season. I really can’t see them spending the money on Rendon. Do they make a trade and if so, will someone on the active roster go?
AC – Now that was a game!!! As I said, we can throw out all the stats and just get down to the game…
#30 USC – #6 ND worth the admission…
The same bugaboo that has cost my Trojans since Helton took the reins jumped up again. This team cannot tackle, and Helton will not practice tackling. That guy has got to go. For those who think Roberts is incompetent, he is a genius compared to Helton. And because the team gave up over 300 yards rushing to a team averaging 167, I cannot in all good conscious blame the loss on the incompetence of the Pac-12 refs. That roughing the passer call on Gaoteote (#1) was bogus and when it happened it had a big impact on the final score.
On the positive side, two true freshman Kedon Slovis (QB) and Markese Stepp (RB) are legit and if they get a coach who can really develop them, they will lead that offense. I could go on, but why? It won’t change until after the season. There were a couple of true freshman on the defense as well.
On the ND side, the QB, Ian Book, is from our local HS, Oak Ridge. So I have to cheer him on, but not to victory over my Trojans.
Still not as bad, AC, as being a Bruin’s fan.
I am not going to single any one person out, but it seems that many of you have totally taken leave of your senses.
I can buy firing Roberts, but if you think Friedman should go, you are too big of a moron to read this blog.
Frankly, when I read that stupid $___________, I question why I even do this because many are incapable of reason.
I am serious… I know you are upset. I’m upset! But, there is no dumbass vaccine and I ask “why do this when comprehension is so low?”
AF is not going anywhere unless he wants to.
I have no idea what the Billionaire Boys Club will allow for a budget, but to believe the Dodgers will not sign one significant FA because it is not their style, may not be true this year. The ownership group has said that they want to stay right at the CBT. They have about $50MM to be able to spend for FA, and they have the ability to spend on Cole or Rendon and stay well under the CBT. I would expect that with the improvements to the stadium and the ASG coming to town, I think they would want to generate a great deal of interest in LAD leading up to the game. The team will have absolutely zero influence on attendance for the actual ASG and activities, but the buzz around the team could be something special.
I also beleive that the team is waaaaaay too LHH, and it needs to be balanced. I am not smart enough to conjecture how that problem gets solved, but I hope the Dodgers do find a way to get another RH slugger in the middle of the lineup. I am not as concerned about LF defense as some might be. I still go back to Greg Luzinski, Pat Burrell, Manny Ramirez, and Jose Canseco who were not MLB OF because of their defense. If Castellanos or JDM can get the offense centered around them, they have to make a stab at getting one of them (if not Rendon or Bryant).
Left fielders make on average two outs per game in the field. You still have to do other stuff that doesn’t show up, but you can probably get away with sending Muncy out there if you have to put someone else at 1B.
Verdugo for Hanager.
Seager and Pollock for G. Torres.
Cole, Buehler, Kershaw, May, Urias
LF. Pederson/Hernandez
3B. Turner
1B. Muncy
SS. Torres
CF. Bellinger
RF. Hanager
2B. Lux
C. Smith
Dude, step away from the ledge. If you weren’t here, I would probably start reading Nosler again. Geesh.
I have to tell you though. When you go nuts on someone, it squashes their voice. If you just want people to agree with you in the comments, keep doing it. If you want other opinions, relax a little.
Let’s put together some reason here and look at the facts.
The good…
Farm system is great.
Players generally are ready to contribute when they arrive.
Payroll is a good level, with caveats that he went over the CBT this year, but by so little it didn’t maximize the value to do justify it. Probably could have lived without Gyorko and White.
The team won 106 games
Signed RVS – The hitting gurus did well this year, then the players regressed a bit. Still on the plus side for me.
Acquired Manny Machado – We don’t get there without him, not a great post season. Good test drive to find out it just didn’t feel right.
Did not sign Harper or Machado.
Picked up Muncy off the trash pile
The bad…
Extended Roberts last year after making questionable moves two World Series in a row.
Signed Pollock – great second half, bad first half and post season
Signed Kelly – See above
Didn’t get bullpen help, possibly leading to the bullpen debacle. I say possibly because Roberts might have gone to Kershaw there with Chapman, Vazquez and Smith in his pen.
Puig – Most likely on the red side of the ledger getting rid of Puig in favor of Pollock as far as the post season is concerned. (Don’t confuse anomalies with trends when it comes to platoon splits – apply this rule to Seager as well)
Yordan Alvarez
Mixed Bag
Extended Kershaw – What was he supposed to do, let him walk? He’s definitely not an Ace, but he’s close. But, he’s pretty much responsible for 2 losses in a series where you only get three.
Traded for Darvish – We needed him, he helped us get there, then melted down.
Overall AF has done a pretty good job, but failed at the one thing he was supposed to do. I give him a B-. That grade drops further if we’re having this conversation next year.
If you want to look at him as a President of Baseball Operations exclusively, he’s a B+. Hiring Roberts keeps him from being an A.
If you want to look at him as a GM, probably a solid C. He signed his own players, but all of them have some warts. He added impact talent at a couple of deadlines. But, he hasn’t added any impact talent in free agency.
He got to the WS back to back, but lost both.
Now, with all that said. If your top priority is to win a ring, then there is some justification in firing him for not getting it done even if it was Roberts fault. Roberts is his hire and you have to own that. Or, you have to own the fact that you didn’t solidify the bullpen with arms that Roberts trusts, or you didn’t convince Roberts to trust them.
I’m not trying to silence any logical argument. I just don’t buy into dumb S________________!
Just color me dumb (no Mark, I’m not referencing your post just before this one). I have no idea what AF (who I hope returns) or anyone else in the Dodgers FO is thinking or is going to do or not do. They simply know stuff that I don’t, and will base their decisions on that info.
I just have a general sense that the Dodgers need to make some major moves, which will likely require some major investments. And for that reason I would like to see them acquire Cole and a major right handed bat like Rendon. And if it accomplishes the same thing, it can be other names.
I do see some of our young pitchers like Urias, Gonsolin, May and maybe others as being potential pieces in our rotation, but I also do not rule out any of them ending up as a valuable part of the pen. Nothing is written in stone, and circumstances could alter the way we’re thinking, and the Dodgers brass as well.
And if the Dodgers make any trades (major or minor), I do not believe that there are any players who can’t be traded. If the return makes sense, I don’t believe that anyone is untouchable. Which is why I don’t suggest trades. There is simply too much I don’t know, and too many variables. But I do understand that some people suggest trades because the exercise is enjoyable. And who am I keep anyone from having fun?
Some players do well in one or two playoff series and poorly in one or two.
A one and out series only gives players one series to excell.
Emotions are still raw so now is not a good time to have hard takes.
I just read Dylan Hernandez’ article in the LA Times, somehow avoiding the paywall. I have not always been a big fan of Hernandez, but he is absolutely right about the Dodgers not spending sufficiently, and counting on the fans to put up with it. Playing it safe can get you divisions, but likely not titles, because you don’t have the superstars to take you all the way.
Do you expect anything else, William? Teams don’t build themselves on what the fans expect. The ownership will dictate how the team is built and they hire people to do it. No matter what the sport or what the team does, the fans are addicted and will come. Hope is what drives them, not how good Joc is or is going to be. Most fans will watch anything their team puts out. Ive never seen or heard of fans boycotting a sport. A few will not bother to go to games, but in big market sports, logic and intelligence of the fans have little to do with the actual teams they root for. They want to be entertained.
Question for everyone:
After he gets a huge contract, will Gerritt Cole be the Houston version or the Pittsburgh version?
I don’t know what version Cole will be, but neither does anyone else, including Cole himself. He did have one really good year with the Pirates in 2015, when he went 19-8 with a 2.60.
Maybe pitching with a contender has made a difference, or perhaps it’s just experience and maturity. As the first overall pick in the 2011 draft, there is little doubt that he has the talent. But like with any major FA signing, there is risk.
Yankees are on their fifth relief pitcher, who walks two men in a row with one out, and Boone takes him out. Roberts would let him walk two more, and say, as he did with Kelly, whom he left in with the bases loaded and no out, that he was hoping for a ground ball there.