Einstein insanity…“Insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results.” So the team should stay as they are with little to no change? There are many who believe the team is worthy of a WS championship as it is currently constructed with a couple of tweaks. Another year with RVS as hitting coach will obviously make the Dodgers even better hitters than they were in 2019. Urias, May, and Gonsolin are more than enough to make up for the loss of Hill and Ryu. The Dodgers bullpen was in the top 5 with ERA, why change? To keep throwing out the core of this team and expecting a WS ring? Now that is insanity. I have been told to watch and learn for the past three years, and it has progressively gotten worse over those years when it most mattered…in the playoffs . From 2017 to 2018 to 2019.
Then there are those who think that a team that won 106 games has no business being discussed as the best of MLB level, and need a serious tear down. That is just as insane.
If the Dodgers do not make any changes as some would like the team would look something like the following:
Position (12):
1B – Muncy
2B – Lux
3B – JT
SS – Seager
LF – Pollock/Joc
CF – Verdugo
RF – Belli
C – Smith
Bench:
C – Barnes (R)
Util – CT3 (R) or Kike’ (R)
Util – Beaty (L)
Starting Pitching (5):
Buehler (R)
Kershaw (L)
Urias (L)
May (R)
Maeda (R)
Relief (9):
KJ (Closer)
Kelly (R)
Baez (R)
Alexander (L)
Gonsolin (R)
Garcia (R)
Ferguson (L)
Strip (R)
Floro (R)/Sadler (R)/Santana (R)/Sborz (R)/Kolarek (L)/Chargois (R)
Good, but certainly not elite.
At least Mark is agreeable to LAD signing Gerrit Cole and realizing that it is a dope fiend move. The Dodgers need to do something bold to change the dynamics of the team. They no longer have co-Aces at the top of the rotation. CK is quickly descending down the rotation. Urias and May are untested starters and may become top of the rotation starters, but cannot be considered at the level just yet. So how do the Dodgers get that co-Ace? They can trade for one or sign one as a FA. What Ace is available via trade? Scherzer/deGrom/Verlander/Flaherty/Soroka/Castillo? Not likely any of those will be moved. There is one Ace FA (Gerrit Cole) and one potential Ace FA (Stephen Strasburg). I would be happy with either one. Will the Dodgers spend? I think they will, while others say no.
Next level below Ace? Zach Wheeler may fall into this group? But is Zach really better than CK? Trevor Bauer has one year remaining, and he could be considered if the Reds are so inclined. However, Cincinnati believes they will contend next year, and Trevor Bauer is very much counted on to help them contend. Luis Severino? NYY is not going to trade their best pitcher when they need pitching. Jon Lester? Not now. I was an advocate for Corey Kluber last winter, and I would be just as interested, but not nearly at the same cost. He saved almost a full year on his arm in 2019. Noah Syndergaard? I think Brodie Van Wagenen overvalues Noah. Mike Foltenewicz? 2019 was a bad year, but he is one year removed from an outstanding season. Atlanta will not move him.
Other FA pitchers? Jake Odorizzi? I have always been a Jake fan, but more for a #4, not #2. MadBum? Not at his likely cost. I see MadBum going to Atlanta. Cole Hamels? No thank you.
Relievers – I think MT and AF are the only two who actually believe the Dodger’s bullpen is good. Not being as bad as Washington’s is not the same as being good. ERA is not a good metric to measure the value of a bullpen, but if it does for some, so be it. We will just have to disagree. Just like CK is no longer an Ace, KJ is no longer a dependable closer. Neither Joe Kelly nor Petey Baez are reliable 8th inning relievers. Occasionally? Sure. MT has said that Scott Alexander will be a big help next year. He said the same last year. Maybe 2020 will be the year, but more probably not. He can be a good groundball middle reliever. I have faith in Caleb Ferguson, but he was not considered good enough to make the Dodgers post season bullpen. The same for Yimi Garcia and Dylan Floro. Baez, Kelly, Ferguson, Floro, and Garcia all throw hard, but none have consistent command and cannot be counted on in high leverage situations. None have consistent secondary pitches. Good and occasionally very good, but not consistently elite.
Since most teams have questionable bullpens, those that have elite or near elite relievers are not going to trade them without an overpay in prospects. I am just starting to review the potential relievers available, but those that I have been high on in the past that may be available via trade are Aaron Bummer (doubtful he is available). NYY’s Chad Green. Texas’ Jose Leclerc. Houston’s Ryan Pressly (also extremely doubtful). All four are 8th inning type and not closers. Chad Green had a great 2017 – .147/.211/.242/.454 with a 1.83 ERA and 0.739 WHIP in 69 IP. 2018 – .229/.268/.373/.641 with a 2.50 ERA and 1.044 WHIP in 75.2 IP. 2019 was not a banner year, but after being sent down to AAA in the early part of the year after starting with a 16.43 ERA, Chad came back and in July-Sept he pitched in 28 games and 40.2 IP. He gave up 13 earned runs but 9 came in 2 games. Thus in 26 games he allowed 4 earned runs with a line of .186/.262/.338/.600. He brought his ERA down to 4.17. Yes, I know that Chad gave up the three run shot to Correa, but I still like him. Correa has hit a lot of HRs off a lot of good pitchers.
A 5th reliever that may be available is RHRP, Ken Giles. He is a big question mark for me, but if he is right and can handle big game situations, he could be a big help as lockdown setup or a closer. Is he the Philly/Blue Jay pitcher or the Astros pitcher?
My dark horse candidate in Michael Lorenzen. I think he could be next year’s top notch late inning high leverage reliever. He already throws hard, but is now being schooled to throw even harder by Trevor Bauer who has done a good job with Clevinger and Bieber with Cleveland. I really like what Lorenzen could mean to the LAD bullpen.
There are three FA relievers I would consider. I like Will Smith as the closer. He just turned 30. He had 34 saves and 4 blown saves. He inherited 9 runners and 1 scored. In 63 games he surrendered 3 runs in 2 games, 2 runs in 2 games and 0 or 1 run in 59 games. The second FA reliever I would consider would be Dellin Betances. He had 0.2 IP in 2019, and struck out both batters faced. His career line is .170/.274/.260/.534 with a career 2.36 ERA and a 1.043 WHIP. In 381.2 IP he has 621 K. He might consider a one year make good incentive laden contract. The third FA reliever I would consider is Will Harris. The problem with Harris is that he will be 35 next year and is going to want to cash in with a multiyear deal. Harris is primarily a 6th/7th inning pitcher, so he is an outstanding middle reliever. I do not see him as a viable FA candidate for the Dodgers, but maybe.
I can read it now…Why should the Dodgers spend money on fickle relievers when they have Gonsolin/Santana/Sborz/Kasowski/de Geus/White all waiting to take charge? Picking relievers is often times a crap shoot. Sometimes you hit, most of the time you do not. Agree or disagree on who, but there has to be changes.
Other questions that will need to be answered this winter.
- Joc is a platoon OF who cannot hit LHP, but had 36 HRs. He has value to a lesser team as an everyday player, or to the Dodgers as a platoon OF. Should the Dodgers extend him, or trade him at his zenith.
- What to do with Ross Stripling? Trade him or keep him for depth. As a big Strip fan, I am hoping they trade him so I can watch him pitch on a regular basis.
- Who replaces David Freese? Freese is the ultimate professional hitter. They need RH bats in general, but definitely one that will come off the bench.
- Is Gavin Lux ready to become a regular 2B in the LAD lineup, or does he need one more year at AAA? Or will he transition to the OF as has been suggested?
- Will Alex Verdugo come back healthy? His brother says yes. I will go along with that.
- Will Austin Barnes be the LAD backup or be traded with the Dodgers re-signing Martin or sign another veteran backstop like Maldonado or Vogt, ultimately waiting for Keibert Ruiz to be ready?
- Will the Dodgers sign Anthony Rendon on a shorter term high AAV contract without deferrals? While not overly convincing, JT indicated that he would be willing to move for someone like Rendon. If not Rendon, do they turn their attention to Nicholas Castellanos or another RH bat. Is Kris Bryant really a trade potential who can play all over the field. Mookie Betts? What other RH bat is available that is not better situated as an AL DH (including JDM or Castellanos).
- Will the Dodgers spend this winter? I absolutely believe they will. They will have $40MM to $45MM available to spend, and they have always said they just want to stay around the CBT. This is the first year they have really been in a position to spend, and I believe they will. I have no idea on who?
- Will they trade Corey Seager to help get a quality return and become less LH dominant. I hope not as I believe Seager could have a MVP type year in 2020. But the thought is getting a lot of traction with the baseball journalists.
- Will Belli be more of the April hitter or the playoff hitter?
- Do the Dodgers really need both CT3 and Kike’?
- Will the Dodgers redo Maeda’s contract and put him in the pen?
I am just hoping that the Dodgers will do something bold that will help the 2020 team to get better, even if it costs them prospects and takes them over the CBT. Status quo is not an option for me.
Finally, I ask for your indulgence as I add a little self serving point. Today would have been my son, Kris’, 41st birthday. Instead of celebrating his birthday we will be celebrating his brother’s new position as head high school baseball coach at Wooster High in Reno, NV. What makes this special for us is that almost four years ago, Andy had a stroke, lost his college coaching position, and has not done much since other than watch over his daughter, albeit a tremendously important role. He has problems speaking in complete sentences with word lapses and reading problems. He lost contact with a lot of friends because he was ashamed and embarrassed of his speech and inability to read. When Kris came back, his job was to be there for Andy. Kris was looking for a new adventure when the Lord called, and now we believe he is up there pulling strings for Andy. It is doubtful that Andy would have even considered applying for the coaching position, and now he is going to be introduced as a coach at a press conference on his brother’s birthday. A press conference will be the most uncomfortable event that Andy can deal with, but with Kris there (and he will be), Andy will do well. Below is an article memorializing the announcement of his hiring:
Thank you for indulging me.
I think the Dodgers will go with 13 position players and 13 pitchers with the 3 batter minimum rule.
I wouldn’t trade for an ace starting pitcher because we would have to give up a ton. Therefore get Gerrit Cole and if Strasburg opts out get him too and that’s enough starting pitching we need.
Free agent relievers you mentioned, I’m for getting Will Harris.
You mentioned trading for Aaron Bummer but say it will be an overpay, I’m willing to do that. You mentioned Ken Giles and I wanted him at the trade deadline and still want him now.
You mentioned trading Joc, I’m against that and fear Pollock full time in LF.
I’m for getting Castellanos only if he agrees to possibly being Joc’s platoon partner and definitely Turner’s back up at 3B. Pollock’s inability to hit RHP last season makes him either Joc’s platoon partner or on the bench as a pinch hitter, oh yeah Freese’s spot. So Castellanos or Pollock as Joc’s platoon partner doesn’t matter which one to me.
You mention Ross Stripling and yes he should be traded.
You mention Gavin Lux, he should stay at 2B in my opinion.
Verdugo’s brother say he will be back so there you go, our CF.
Just go with Barnes as back up catcher until Ruiz is ready.
I’m not a big fan of Seager, his inability to hit left handed pitching last season is mainly why, so I’d platoon him with Taylor. Plus what SS is out there in the free agent market that blows you away? Nobody to me.
We don’t need Rendon, the money should go to pitching.
I’m predicting a good postseason for Bellinger next year. So I’m not worried.
Do the Dodgers really need both Taylor and Hernandez? No and if the Dodgers add Castellanos then Hernandez needs to go because there is no room for him.
Maeda in the pen and redoing his contract would depend on how the Dodgers build their 2020 team.
My final roster would look like this:
13 pitchers
Cole
Strasburg
Buehler
Kershaw
Maeda
May
Giles
Bummer
Harris
Gonsolin
Baez
Urias
Jansen
13 position players
Smith C
Muncy 1B
Lux 2B
Seager/Taylor platoon SS
Turner 3B
Bellinger RF
Verdugo CF
Pederson/Castellanos or Pollock platoon LF
Bench
One SS above
Two LF’s above
Beaty
Barnes
Brilliant! More platoons, that’s what we need. What makes you think a guy like Castellanos would sign a free agent deal to be on the small side of a platoon? Please try to be at least remotely realistic.
Taylor’s career splits against LHP .258/.334/.449/.783
Seager’s careet splits against LHP .272/.336/.445/.781
Last year MT declared that Puig could no longer hit LHP. After that, Puig’s splits were even. Be careful no to misidentify an outlier as a trend as MT does.
I’m not saying that I’m right, I’m just saying what I would do and stats drive my thinking.
Castellanos would also be Turner’s backup.
I know the career stats, but last season Taylor had a 859 OPS against LHP. Seager 703.
To me nothing is written in stone, so if Seager goes on a tear against RHP then see if it spills over to LHP by giving him at bats against LHP.
Platoons aren’t necessarily permanent to me.
For now I’d like to see the Dodgers sign Cole and add another starting pitcher, be it through free agency or via trade. As for Gonsolin, May, and Urias, just let it play out. Depending on how things go, one or more of them could end up in the rotation or the pen. And since they all have options (not sure about Urias), there is no reason that any one of them can’t spend some time in the minors. Whatever the case, it’s still true that you can never have too much pitching. The unforeseen will certainly occur, so depth is a strength.
And an impact right handed bat or two is also a must. We can no longer depend upon JT to be the regular everyday force that he’s been. Wherever he plays, he’s probably best suited to a less than full-time role. And while his stock is still high, now is probably the best time for the Dodgers to cash in on the return Joc can bring.
I love Lux as a player, but if circumstances dictate it, I have no problem with him beginning the season at AAA. None of our young players have to be given anything. Whatever they get has to be EARNED.
And any of us can say anything we want, but the fact is that probably one or more unexpected players will step up, and throw a monkey wrench into our best laid plans.
AC very happy for your son and your family! What a special, yet painful, day to have him announced as the coach! Continued prayers for God’s comfort and grace to surround your family.
Good post with much to think about. Wish I knew the answers to your questions.
Good read. I realize that some people have suggested they trade Cory Seager, which, I’m sorry, makes absolutely no sense. None.
Someone should ask Friedman that question. Not going to happen, the Dodgers want to sign Cory long term. He’s part of a bright future, When Friedman reflects on the Dodgers young core, he’s not just talking about Bellinger and Buehler. Seager, coming off two surgeries, had a pretty good year. Expect him to be really good in 2020.
Interesting commentary last night on the Dodger show with former GM Ned Colletti and Daily News writer JP Hoornstra as to which free agent the Dodgers might pursue this winter, Anthony Rendon or Gerrit Cole. Both seemed to think Rendon would be the player.
Hoornstra felt the Dodgers wouldn’t want to block their young core of pitchers (Urias, May, Gonsolin) from moving into starting roles. Colletti questioned basically the miles on Cole’s arm, making him a risky signing. Of course, years ago the same was said about Max Scherzer, one of the reasons the DBacks traded him (concern over his throwing motion).
Apparently, Rendon May be interested in a shorter contract with a higher dollar amount, doesn’t see himself playing baseball in his mid 30s. Regarding Cole, he wants to be on the west coast, according to his teammates.
Since you’re only going to get one crack at a major free agent signing the Dodgers May be faced with a hard decision. Of course, the player has to want to come to LA.
Both Colletti and Hoornstra believe there is a good possibility that Hill returns to pick up innings and keep the younger pitchers fresh for post season play.
AJ Pollock had a strong second half and I expect him to have a really good 2020.
I’m guessing the Dodgers trade Taylor and maybe a couple of others from the roster in pursuit of young up and coming relievers.
I like it, all of it! If I had to choose between Rendon and Cole, I would pick Rendon for this simple fact. We have a lot of pitchers and we don’t have an RH hitters that are close to being major leaguers. Castellanos gives me pause because of his defense.
Is the overall defense better with Casty in RF, Belli CF, Pollock LF, and Lux at 2B, Turner 3B, Muncy 1B. Or is it better with Rendon at 3B, Muncy at 2B, Turner at 1B with an outfield of Verdugo, Pollock and Belli?
It makes sense that the interviewees agree about the pitching. Kershaw, Maeda and Bueller are in the rotation for sure. Maeda seems okay with his role and I like that he strengthens the bullpen come playoff time. It seems like they have enough depth with Urias, May, Gonsolin and Stripling. On the other hand, getting an established Ace, and trading away a high upside and young hurler would bring about an enticing return.
A way too early post-season rotation of Bueller and May from the right side and Urias and Kershaw from the left side would provide great balance. Urias and May can be the guys to pitch out of the bullpen between starts next year.
I’m not totally opposed to bringing back Hill as a swingman and lefty pen piece come post-season. He can spend most of the year on the DL and come off to give the youngsters a break during the long season.
Be strong AC, thanks for sharing about your sons. Congratulations on the coaching job. If Andy is as level-headed as you, he will do great.
I am just hoping that the Dodgers will do something bold that will help the 2020 team to get better, even if it costs them prospects and takes them over the CBT. Status quo is not an option for me. – This was basically my mantra last year. Unfortunately, Machado and Harper were not great fits. Hopefully, they will find someone worthy of adding to this team, this off-season.
The trade deadline was a total failure. We needed a middle of the order right handed bat and a guy that can get some saves. We didn’t get either. Not sure it would have mattered. The guys that drive the train seem to always make questionable decisions.
I don’t really care about sports writers suggesting a Seager trade. It’s beyond moronic. Was anyone thinking we should trade him after his first two years? Hell no! Is a 4 WAR a bad year for a SS? Hell no! Do we have an obvious replacement? Hell no! Not when you’re talking about a CT3/Lux platoon.
You’re right Clayton Kershaw is no longer an Ace. Yes, you want a 2 / 3 headed monster in the rotation and the back of the bullpen in the playoffs. Expecting May or Urias to be an Ace next year is like expecting Lux to take over at SS. Good if it happens, but you can’t plan for it.
Cole/Stras/Wheeler/Ryu. We better get one of them and a guy that can get a save and a RH middle of the order bat. No BS this year. Get it done!
Turner R – 10/5 rights, last year of deal.
Pollock R – 1st year in on a multi-year deal.
Smith R – Excellent rookie showing, great defense behind the plate.
Bellinger L – MVP regular season
Seager L – 4 WAR in a down season
Muncy L – 2nd highest WAR on team
This is a solid lineup deserving of another shot. Listed above are the reason(s) they stay in the lineup. We have two spots where we can add a RH middle of the order bat. Two more positions if you want to let Muncy play 2B next year, and Turner play 1B.
A good GM should be able to get that middle of the order bat, Ace and bullpen Ace with via two free agents and a trade. This better be the offseason where we go big.
Congratulations on the coaching Job A C. God bless.
AC – You indulge us any time you darn well please.
You are certainly right about Kris being there when Andy is Introduced… What a bittersweet day for you and yours… My thoughts will be with you today and I’m hoping you’ll keep us posted on Andy’s progress…
I agree with those who want to stay with Seager. And if memory serves, I recall that Seager used to hit lefthanders very well. Without checking any stats, he may well have hit lefthanders a little better. I still think Seager is the best hitter we have, assuming he can recapture whatever he lost, which I think he can. In his rookie year Seager hit 26 HRs, and 22 the following year, which was marred by elbow problems for a good part of the second half. Seager is listed at 6’4” , 215 and Bellinger is listed at 6’4”, 203 on the Dodgers website. I think a lot of people forget how big Seager is. If he can get completely healthy and devote himself to a focused off-season workout program, I see no reason why he can’t become a 30+ HR guy, and maybe even more, depending of course, on the liveliness of the 2020 baseball.
I agree that one or more of our young pitchers may be able to successfully jump into the rotation, but like I said above, you can never have too much pitching. And I see no problem with buying some insurance (expensive as it may be) and letting the youngsters work their way in over time. I don’t think we want to go into the post-season depending on too many youngsters without some veteran support.
Hell, by now you know me. I’m the guy who veers off the subject of the post to lighten it up a bit…
MT, AC or whomever… I’ve always been one to like the skipper Kevin Kennedy and the Dodgers have released him of his radio responsibilites… My question is why has he never been mentioned in any managerial jobs??? Just wondering…
To be sure of hitting the target, shoot first and call whatever you hit the target…
Peter, I wish I had a good answer, but I have none. He last managed in 1996, and that may have something to do with it.
Love listening to Kevin Kennedy and Rick Monday but they are rarely on together anymore and if they have let Kennedy go then I think that sucks.
And get the right-handed impact bats. Be it Rendon, Castellanos, or anyone else I’m not thinking of. I like having the left handed power we currently have, but it needs to be supplemented by righthanded power.
And there needs to be an emphasis on avoiding strikeouts. In the first half the Dodgers did that. In the NLDS we saw the opposite of that. The failure to hit WRISP was a definitely related to the inability of the Dodgers hitters to make consistent contact in the post-season.
And I’m sure that RVS and the Dodgers hitting coaches are well aware of that.
We watch Houston, they are clearly better than the Dodgers, just like Boston was last year. Again, it comes down to whether the ownership’s goal is to have the best team in baseball in a given year, or to just make the playoffs. If the latter, they can probably do that without changes, at least for one more year, or unless SD gets Cole. If the former, then they need significant changes. I don’t see the recent loss in the NLDS as just one of those things,, “let’s just go out there again and make up for it.” I think it was the sign of a shift; the Dodgers of the last four years were not good enough, and now the window on that basic unit is about to close. Kershaw is a middle of the rotation pitcher at best. Jansen is just not going to be the closer he was. Seager may have been overrated in general, we will see. Ryu is likely gone. Turner misses many games. A really smart and dedicated ownership and front office would sense this shift, and prepare to start a new era with some of the same players, but definitely some new ones, so as to get to where the presumed goal has been for the franchise.
What do the Dodgers absolutely need to challenge for a title next year? A co-ace, as AC said above. “Buehler and then hope for the best, “will not do it. Cole is the only one who fits that description, but I will be stunned if we outbid all the other teams, and he may well choose to go to the Yankees even at a discount. If we don’t get Cole, then we might need to package of our young potential starters to a team which wants youth and potential. It sounds funny now, but when the Dodgers traded Pete Richert in 1965 as part of the Claude Osteen deal, he was a hard-throwing righthander who many thought would be a star. And we all remember Zach Lee, whom we held on to for a couple of years despite trade offers. I’m not saying we should trade May, but we should not reflexively hold onto every high-rated pitching prospect in our system.
If we rebuilt the pitching staff: added the high-end #2 pitcher, maybe even another starter, and then set out to completely reshape the bullpen, we could probably get by with the current lineup. We absolutely need a closer. We cannot go into next season with Jansen the presumed closer, and then let’s see how it goes.. There is really no reliever on this team whom I want to keep, except maybe Ferguson, who has potential. I don’t ever want to see Alexander out there again, nor Floro. We have to stop going into the seasons with a cavalier we will see how it works out approach to the bullpen, and then pick up duds like Jim Johnson or Ryan Madsen later on.
But as I write this, I know that this is not the Dodgers way now. The goal is always to do only what is absolutely necessary, to do as little as possible to change the roster, to keep it filled with cost-controlled players. They gave excessive contracts to Jansen, Turner, Hill, even Kershaw, because they value continuity and fan favorites. They won’t bid for top FAs, but will dip into the lower end FA market, usually ineffectively.. They will not give up a regular player, except in the case of Puig, whom they saw as a distraction. If they follow their past template, they will not get Cole, they will get a lesser starter. They will make some kind of deal for a relief pitcher, but not on the high end. They will go with pretty much the same lineup as they had this year, all the platooning included. They will win 90-95 games and be eliminated in the NL playoffs by a team which has improved more than we have. To avoid that fate, a revamping is necessary, but will the Dodgers see it, or will they try to make a virtue of the fact that they don’t like to take risks, and prefer the comfort of continuity to the higher risk, higher reward model?
FYI – Pete Richert was a lefty. I think it is more likely that Dodgers re-sign Ryu than come close to the projected contract for Cole.
SoCal – You hit the nail on the head!!! I would rather arm wrestle with Ryu and Boras than get into the Cole projected salary/years demands…
Whatever we do it doesnt bode well for AF… A no win situation…
Yes and why not get Cole and while were at it FA Strasburg… Should frontal lobotomies been outlawed???
Deepest condolences, AC.
A lot of negative talk about Robert Bochy says he does not want to manage and 2020. If Robert fail’s in 2020 could Bochy be a candidate for dodger manager.
In a word, “no”. Not as long as this front office is in place. Not a fit.
First of all AC, huge congrats to Andy for his courage and fortitude.
Please tell him that there’s a guy here in the Valley whose daughter attended Alemany that will be rooting for him.
When you put your “non change” roster together up top you included 14 pitchers. I believe the new rule specifically prohibits carrying more than 13 active pitchers on the roster.
Free Strip! – I really hope that AF trades him this off season. If given a chance to start on a regular basis I think he could really help a team. He’ll never get that chance here. Even when he is given a chance to start, it’s always just temporary. He’s got some value. Trade him.
With apologies to those huge Joc fans out there, I think we need to sell high on him and trade him this winter. I don’t see any way that Andrew tries to extend him or re-sign him after this next season so let’s see what his value is out on the open market.
As do others, I think that CT3 and Kike are somewhat redundant and one could go if the return is worthwhile.
AC, you’ve mentioned Bryan Reynolds more than once. I like him too and although I think the Pirates would be nuts to trade him, they need a lot so maybe they would listen for the right package. What do you think it would take, player-wise, to talk the Bucs out of him?
I am not sure what a package for Bryan Reynolds would look like. I would hazard a guess that whatever package was put together would include Keibert Ruiz. But after that it will be difficult to put a reasonable package that both teams will select. I doubt very much that it will happen but I will let AF put something together to be the next to fleece Huntington.
Great article AC and Godspeed to Andy. I believe that going back and doing what he loves will have physical benefits… maybe even miraculous! When you do what you love, your overall health is bound to improve.
I have to take issue with some fans who think the front office will do what is needed. I doubt that the ones who criticize AF and the front office have ever ran anything (other than their mouth). Have they ever managed 25 people? How about 40? How about 400 or more? That’s what AF is responsible for. He’s also charged with keeping the organization relevant while winning. That means keeping the farm system near the Top of the Pack. I’ve said it before and I will keep saying it. THE 5 YEARS UNDER AF HAVE BEEN THE GREATEST DODGER RUN THAT I CAN REMEMBER. They are in a position to win it all every year. That they haven’t is not a worry to me. YOU CANNOT COMPARE THE ASTROS TO HOW THE DODGERS WERE BUILT. They tanked and were horrible for years. They drafted wisely at the top of the draft (for the most part – they had a few that were duds) and were in a position to play Verlander when he came onto the market. They have never been over the luxury tax.
When Friedman came to LA the Dodgers were in luxury tax hell. He got them out and kept them winning. If they now have to exceed the Luxury Tax Threshold for a year or two, I believe they will do it. If I know Andrew Friedman’s MO, it’s that he does not like to give up draft picks, so I do not see Rendon on the radar. Busch and Hoese are on the radar soon. Nick Castellanos requires no compensation. I would make a move for him and install him in LF. He hits RH and LH pitching and under RVS, I think he will get even better!
I would trade the following players: (CT3 or Kike), Stripling, Maeda, Barnes, Pederson, and Pollock. Some of those players and a prospect will get Aaron Bummer. I would sell high on Joc. He will never hit lefties and the league will adjust to what he did this year. His goose is cooked. Pollock might be a good DH. Of course, I will give up a pick for Cole and it might be dope-fiend move, but I think its possible he has Verlanders longivity!
My Lineup in 2020:
1. Verdugo RF
2. Bellinger CF
3. Turner 3B
4. Muncy 1B
5. Castellanos LF
6. Seager SS
7. Smith C
8. Lux 2B
Reserves:
CT3 or Kike
Martin
Beaty
Garlick
Rios
Starters:
1. Cole
2. Buehler
3. Urias
4. Kershaw
5. May
Bullpen:
1. Jansen
2. Garcia
3. Baez
4. Bummer
5. Santana
6. Gonsolin
7. Kelly
8. Ferguson or Alexander or de Gues
Your rotation is a thing of beauty!
Bullpen? I don’t think Santana is anywhere near ready for an MLB job next year. On the other hand, you only show one southpaw in the bullpen. Let’s bring Hill back on a cheap, incentive-laden contract and put him in the pen. He’s so different from every other MLB pitcher that he would probably be a good option in relief.
Bench – I really like Garlick but I’m not sure he’s ultimately going to cut it as a fourth outfielder. I think it would be hard to trade Pollock unless we send a lot of money with him, so maybe keep him instead of Garlick
Also love the idea of hitting Belli second. Maybe that would convince him to cut down on his swing and bunt and/or hit to left once in a while.
Send the cash$$$$$ Get him outta’ here!
Andrew Friedman is not perfect. This proves it!
OK, I’m counting on you to start the Go Fund Me page so we can help him raise the money to send Pollock on his way.
If we traded every one of the guys you mentioned, it would be interesting to see what we could get back in return. Kike, Joc, Strip, Barnes Maeda all have some trade value. Pollock not so much because of the contract.
Well, AC and Eric want Bummer and I want them to be happy, so we get him and about 6 prospects for all those players… many a couple of Grays and Downs. Stock the farm… while winning.
I think the payroll would be BARELY over the Luxury Threshold.
You’re already giving up the draft pick for Cole. If you sign Rendon, it’s another round down so it’s better to splurge in one year. I like your roster, but I would keep Pollock.
Change is in the air:
https://www.baseballamerica.com/stories/mlb-floats-proposal-that-would-eliminate-42-minor-league-teams/?utm_source=BAPR&utm_medium=email
I like it. The minor league system is inefficient. Player development needs an overhaul.
I agree… and better pay!
Yes, that $10 a day for meals is ridiculous.
Just got home and read your article AC. Congratulations to your son on his appointment. I know how proud you must be for him. I am familiar with the struggle one encounters after a stroke. The fear of not ever being the same person again, the worry of not being there for people depending on you. Thank God for the support and help his brother and your family gave him and I admire the strength it took to recover as much as he has. He will get better and improve even more, I believe it. Nice article by the way.
Ac solid article as usual and again I am truly sorry for what you have had to endure. Very happy to hear about Andy and hope that works out really well for him.
William and 59arrow solid posts , as usual, keep them coming!
Definitely agree that if now is not the time to spend then likely it will never be the time. The Tampa of the West label will then be an appropriate description for this team.
I know Corey and Cody are young and maybe that is why they have struggled immensely in the postseason. Or maybe that is what they are just really good hitters that when faced with pressure and elite pitching will struggle. I realize that is most hitters and that is why Rendon seems like someone we need to get. That would give us him and Turner, two guys that have proven they can get it done on the biggest stage. Then the rest of the crew, pollack, Muncy, Corey and Cody form a prolific postseason offense, similar to the Astros.
Cole and Rendon does not seem realistic, I would be elated to get one with this front office’s track record. However if they do finally go out and spend, then they have to go for it and make a trade as well. If Rendon is the choice, then an elite pitcher is needed, if Cole is the choice then a hitter is necessary.
I do fear that the people on this site are by in large diehards and don’t speak for the masses. And Kasten and the other owners know this and realize they can make incredible amounts of money by just remaining competitive. I believe it was AC or William who said this ownership likely does not care nearly as much as we do about winning the whole thing. And alienating diehards would probably not negatively effect the bottom line one bit.
I hope I eat my words and they go out and get it done. Last week the master politician gave a masterful performance and really didn’t answer anything or say much. And frankly the La press gave our ownership and Robert’s a pass. Have we all forgotten Kasten’s comments from the beginning of the season when pressed about the luxury tax and lack of spending this year?
What will be his answer this year, or please just shut me up and get Cole or Rendon.
Why we lost…
Was it hitting with RISP like Mark Suggests? Hell, we outscored the Nats for the series.
Was it because the bullpen wasn’t any good? We had one of the best bullpens down the stretch.
Was it because Doc is an idiot? That idiot managed to win 106 games.
Because Friedman is cheap? Payroll was top 4 just over $200 M.
Was it bad luck?
Joc missed a bases clearing double by inches.
In game 4, the wind knocked down Muncy’s home run for sure. Seager’s oppo field seemed to get held up as well.
I was listening to Eric Stephen’s pod cast regarding Will Smith’s walk off in game 5. Given the launch angle and exit velocity that ball goes out of Dodger Stadium 99 out of 100 times!
No need to blow things up.
Cole or Rendon? I don’t think it has to be either or. When I go to Captain Jacks, I always get Prime Rib and King Crab Legs. They don’t make me choose between the two.
The Red Sox spent about 230 million on payroll last year. We can afford Pribe Rib and King Crab Legs.
Just googled Captain Jack’s. Forget Cole and Rendon. I’ll have the prime rib and crab legs.
Maeda is not going anywhere. With a team friendly contract for the next 4 years, he’s too strong to lose. The only thing he should lose is his SP status. Put him in the BP and let him find his spot there. In case of injuries to SP, he can be relied on temporarily to start.
Try to move Kelly. He is not what they thought he would be. Another AF mistake, along with Pollock.
I agree with Mark in trying to trade CT3 or Kike (probably CT3), Pollock, Stripling, Barnes, & Pederson. But, when he suggests a trade of some of those players for Aaron Bummer, Bummer’s contract is for $549K. How do the numbers match up for even one of those players? Plus, last season was the only good year for Bummer. He showed real improvement and is still bargain basement if he can match what he did. No need to overpay for him even if he is a LHP.
Can’t go too wrong trying to sign Castellanos. I don’t know what his projected salary would be, but using the above players to try and swing something would be good. AF will overpay if he has to sign him as an FA. It’s a gamble, but it might prove a smart one. We have no one like him.
The only way Martin makes this team is with a super friendly minimum 1 year salary. He’s a great guy, but we need Ruiz in there if they don’t wind up using him in a trade.
Getting Cole should be a top priority. Getting Rendon is probably an impossibility, especially if they win the WS.
It’s hard to imagine Bellinger batting #2. If they have to do that, they are not going to the WS. If Belli doesn’t repeat his year, they are in big trouble. They need to focus on both Belli and Seager and get them into a focused hitting routine and philosophy. There are a lot of potential weaknesses in the Dodgers. If the team doesn’t change its approach, we will not be seeing another WS until they do. I will be very curious to see what they have planned. As I’ve said recently, the Dodgers are good, not great.