The list of Dodgers’ free agents is a short, but very high quality named list. All the names that are on that list played very key roles for the Dodgers during their time in LA, especially in 2020. But, obviously we can’t and won’t re-sign them all. So I am going to list all 6 names and discuss the pros and cons of each player and whether or not the Dodgers should re-sign them.
1. Justin Turner —- 3rd Baseman
Starting off the list, is Dodgers postseason hero and fan favorite Justin Turner. Obviously, with all the news and rumors revolving around the Dodgers potentially being involved in acquiring players like Francisco Lindor and Nolan Arenado, Turner’s future with the Dodgers depends on what they do with Lindor or Arenado. But there’s no denying that Turner was integral part of the Dodgers’ success ever since he joined the Dodgers in 2014.
I think that regardless what the Dodgers decide to do with Lindor and Arenado, I believe that Turner needs to be brought back. One thing that makes this even a tougher decision, is the fact that MLB Commissioner’s office are being moronic when it comes to the rules and whether or not the universal DH will stay. But that’s a discussion and a topic for another a blog. Back to Turner, I believe he shouldn’t be go to another a team and should retire a Dodger. Turner has already stated in the past, he’s willing to switch positions to help the Dodgers bring in a big name. But the thing that makes Turner a priority, is the fact that he’s a great clubhouse guy. One who Mookie said that was the glue that kept the team together. So I think Turner should be brought back on like a 3yr/$35 million deal with a possible option for a fourth year that will take him into his age 40 season.
2. Blake Treinen —- Relief Pitcher
Treinen is coming off an incredible season with the Dodgers, who we needed as an insurance policy for Kenley Jansen. Treinen was one of the few constants that were part of our bullpen last year. And I truly believe that we gotta him back. Not only does he bring 9th inning experience, but if Dave Roberts wants to name Kenley closer based on loyalty that’s understandable. But that doesn’t take away the fact that we need insurance policies. If we decide to not bring back Treinen, then Liam Hendriks becomes a must. I believe that we can actually sign both. I expect Julio Urias to be part of the rotation with Kershaw, Buehler, May, and Price. Graterol can’t be relied on because although he throws 102 without trying, he doesn’t miss bats and if that’s the case then 102 might as well be 93. Back to Treinen, I can see Dodgers, giving him a 2yr/$24 million deal.
3. Joc Pederson —- Outfielder/DH
The number three on the list is Joc Pederson. Now, I’ve been outspoken for years to family and friends that Dodgers ruined any chance Joc had of being an everyday player. Because Dave Roberts and management were big on platoon and they didn’t want any left-handed batters face left-handed pitching when Joc first came up, Joc has struggled tremendously against left-handed pitching. Thus, making Joc a platoon player only. Joc is also someone that is hurt by the fact, MLB is taking away the universal DH. If the universal DH was permanent from here on out, then Joc would be one of the most sought-out free agents, because I believe teams see him as a DH in the long run. Now, as far as Dodgers are concerned, I don’t see the Dodgers bringing him back. Do I want them to bring Joc back? I don’t know to be honest. Joc’s best year was 2019 by far, and I don’t see him being that good again. But at the same time, he comes up big when it matters the most…….in October. But we already have one big contract that’s tying us up and was a mistake, that being AJ Pollock, and if I were Andrew Freidman I would focus on extending Seager, Bellinger, Buehler. I wouldn’t be against Dodgers bringing Joc back, I just don’t want him on a big contract that will handcuff us. But if I would have to pick a side, I would say Dodgers let him walk and Joc signs elsewhere.
4. Kike Hernandez —- Infielder/Outfielder
Next is fan favorite Kike Hernandez. Kike is a great clubhouse guy that keeps the positive vibes up and keeps the negativity out. He’s going to be a very desirable free agent in my eyes for three reasons. A) His versatility plays perfect to modern day baseball, where teams love to have players who play multiple positions on deck. 2) He is a great clutch player who has shown he can come up big in big time moments. And something that should be desirable to teams, are having players who have been to the World Series and have experience in those games. And D), Kike is a great clubhouse guy that keeps the energy high. When you’re a team with great players already, and you aren’t that far from winning it all, all you’re missing is great clubhouse guy that brings the team together, like Kike. Now, whether or not Dodgers bring him back, I don’t know. But by the looks of it, Kike could be on his way out, as he has changed his Twitter profile pic to him wearing an all black hat, symbolizing his free agency. I can see the Dodgers bringing him back, as he is loved in the clubhouse and within the organization, and we love utility players like him. I think Dodgers bring him back on a 1yr deal worth $6 million with a possible vesting option or a mutual option for the 2022 season.
5. Pedro Baez —- Relief Pitcher
The human rain delay is next. One of Dave Roberts most relied upon guys is now on the market. Baez has been up and down throughout his tenure in LA, and I don’t see him returning. Or at least I wouldn’t. I would let Pedro walk and make relievers like Hendriks, Treinen, and Chaz Roe priorities before re-signing Baez. But knowing how the Dodgers work, they might bring him back because Doc loves to use him. But with the additions of Cory Knebel and the possible resurgence of Brandon Morrow, we don’t have room in the pen for Baez. So, I say Pedro walks and possibly signs with Miami or a lower level team that needs an innings eater in the pen.
6. Alex Wood —- Starting Pitcher
Last but not least, Alex Wood. To be quite honest, I don’t know how Woods time in Dodger Blue went. He was either injured or up and down, like a roller coaster in Six Flags. His most memorable performance in Dodger Blue had to be in the World Series when he came in and threw 3 solid innings late in the game in game 3 I believe. Now, whether or not he is brought back, I don’t see that happening. I’ve seen rumors of him being connected to Boston, so he may be reunited with Dugie in New England. I don’t see him coming back due to our pitching depth in house. Our rotation is filled and if he were to come back, he’d have to be a long relief option out of the pen.
