“Dodgers Make Big Offer to Free Agent Shortstop, Prepare for Roster Changes: 9 Players Who Could Be Gone & Garrett Crochet’s Future”
As the offseason unfolds, the Los Angeles Dodgers are making significant moves, both on and off the field, as they prepare for the 2024 season. From a bold offer to a free agent shortstop to possible roster changes, the Dodgers are making a big push to strengthen their team and stay competitive in a tough National League. With numerous players potentially leaving, and an intriguing addition in Garrett Crochet, fans are eagerly awaiting the next steps in the Dodgers’ offseason strategy.
Dodgers Make a BIG Offer to Free Agent Shortstop
In one of the biggest moves of the offseason, the Los Angeles Dodgers have reportedly made a significant offer to free agent shortstop Xander Bogaerts. After years of dominance at shortstop with the Boston Red Sox, Bogaerts entered free agency with plenty of suitors, but the Dodgers’ offer stands out as particularly enticing.
Bogaerts, who has been a consistent force both offensively and defensively, is considered one of the top shortstops available this offseason. A career .292 hitter with power and a high baseball IQ, Bogaerts provides exactly the type of veteran leadership and skill the Dodgers need to shore up their infield. With the Dodgers’ current shortstop situation in flux, Bogaerts would offer stability, adding depth to a lineup that already boasts a strong roster of hitters.
The Dodgers’ offer is rumored to be lucrative and long-term, possibly signaling a shift in their long-standing commitment to developing homegrown talent. While the Dodgers have a rich history of cultivating top prospects, signing a star like Bogaerts would show a more aggressive approach to winning now. With their deep pockets and a need to bolster their defense and lineup, Bogaerts could be the centerpiece of the Dodgers’ offseason overhaul.
The deal would also give the Dodgers flexibility in their infield and lineup, as they could opt to move some current players around to create a more balanced and potent batting order. Whether the deal is finalized remains to be seen, but the Dodgers are clearly positioning themselves as serious contenders for Bogaerts, making the offer a defining moment in the offseason.
9 Dodgers That Could Be GONE
While the Dodgers’ pursuit of Bogaerts is one of the major talking points this offseason, there are several other players on the roster who may not be returning for the 2024 season. With the team looking to make significant changes, here are nine players who could be gone as the Dodgers make tough decisions to build a more balanced roster for the future.
- Miguel Rojas (Shortstop)
Miguel Rojas was acquired by the Dodgers for his glove and leadership in 2023, but with the potential acquisition of Bogaerts, Rojas could become expendable. His offensive struggles and age make him a likely candidate to be traded or let go. - Chris Taylor (Utility Player)
After a few years of being a versatile utility man, Chris Taylor’s role with the Dodgers seems uncertain. His offensive inconsistencies and decline in production have raised questions about his future with the team. The Dodgers may look to trade him to open up more space for younger talent or free-agent acquisitions. - David Peralta (Outfielder)
Peralta was brought in during the 2023 season to provide some left-handed power, but the Dodgers have a deep outfield and may look to upgrade. With younger outfielders and new talent emerging, Peralta’s days in Los Angeles could be numbered. - J.D. Martinez (Designated Hitter)
Although Martinez provided a solid bat for the Dodgers in 2023, his future with the team may be in doubt. As the Dodgers look to get younger and more athletic, they may part ways with the veteran DH. - Clayton Kershaw (Pitcher)
The iconic left-hander may be ready to call it a career or accept a more reduced role with the team. Kershaw’s legacy is secure, but as the Dodgers look ahead, they may move on from the long-time ace in favor of younger pitching talent. - A.J. Pollock (Outfielder)
Pollock’s time with the Dodgers has been plagued with injuries and underwhelming performances. With the Dodgers deepening their outfield ranks, it’s possible that Pollock will not return for the 2024 season. - Evan Phillips (Reliever)
After a strong 2023, Phillips could be a trade target for teams seeking bullpen depth. The Dodgers could potentially move him to acquire more immediate pieces or balance out their roster, especially if they sign high-priced free agents. - Trayce Thompson (Outfielder)
Thompson has shown flashes of power, but his consistency at the major league level remains a question mark. With a crowded outfield, Thompson could be moved to make room for other players, either through a trade or a non-tender decision. - Noah Syndergaard (Pitcher)
A former All-Star with the New York Mets, Syndergaard struggled to find his form with the Dodgers in 2023. With an underwhelming performance, he may be let go, particularly with the Dodgers looking to improve their pitching staff and add a more reliable arm for the 2024 season.
These changes reflect the Dodgers’ strategy to balance their roster and make necessary adjustments for long-term success. While parting with some of these players may be difficult, it is a sign of the team’s commitment to building a championship contender.
Garrett Crochet: A Potential Game Changer
Amid the roster changes, one name that has generated interest in Los Angeles is Garrett Crochet. The Chicago White Sox’s promising left-handed pitcher has shown flashes of brilliance but has struggled with consistency and injuries. The Dodgers’ front office is reportedly intrigued by his potential, and there are discussions surrounding a trade to bring him to Los Angeles.
Crochet is a highly regarded pitcher, known for his blazing fastball and sharp slider. When healthy, he has the potential to be a dominant force in the bullpen. The Dodgers, who have a history of developing pitchers and maximizing their potential, could be the perfect environment for Crochet to find his groove. His addition would solidify the bullpen and give manager Dave Roberts another weapon to rely on.
However, the Dodgers will need to weigh the risks of Crochet’s injury history and whether he can return to his 2021 form. If the deal happens, it would be a gamble that could pay significant dividends, especially if Crochet reaches his full potential in the Dodgers’ bullpen.
Conclusion
The Los Angeles Dodgers are making moves to stay competitive and build a championship-caliber team for the 2024 season. The reported big offer to Xander Bogaerts signals their willingness to make bold moves, while the potential departures of key players demonstrate the team’s commitment to adjusting their roster for success. As the team navigates these changes, adding Garrett Crochet to the pitching staff could be the next exciting step in ensuring their continued dominance. Fans will have to stay tuned as the offseason progresses, but one thing is clear: the Dodgers are ready to make a splash and contend for another title.
