Under president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman the past five seasons, the Los Angeles Dodgers have fielded a highly-talented roster while also boasting one of the top farm systems in baseball.
Nevertheless, Friedman has been saddled by a perception of being unwilling to make a big splash. While that narrative in some regard can be applied to his decisions in free agency, Friedman has moved to acquire top-end talent via trade in years past.
However, leading up to the July 31 trade deadline this year, Friedman cautioned the Dodgers would work to be aggressive without crossing a line of being reckless despite World Series aspirations.
Now in the early stages of the offseason, Friedman reiterated that stance, per Jon Heyman of MLB Network:
Dodgers baseball President Andrew Friedman: “Our mindset is to be aggressive, without reaching the point of stupidity.”
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) November 12, 2019
In acknowledging the disappointment that came with the Dodgers getting eliminated in the National League Division Series, Friedman said he believed the team was in position to be active in free agency and on the trade market.
Thus far L.A. has been linked to top free agents Gerrit Cole and Anthony Rendon, along with Josh Donaldson and Hyun-Jin Ryu. Cole, Donaldson and Rendon are expected to decline the qualifying offer from their respective clubs, which would require the Dodgers to forfeit a draft pick and international signing bonus money.
That has seemingly served as a bit of a deterrent in the past. However, Rendon’s reported preference to sign a short-term contract could be of benefit to the Dodgers as it fits well with Friedman’s vision and history.
In terms of potential trades, the Dodgers have been linked to Francisco Lindor. He remains under team control through the 2021 season but there is some belief the Cleveland Indians may look to trade the All-Star shortstop within the near future.
Indications are the Dodgers have interest in adding a starting pitcher, right-handed bat and relief pitcher this winter.
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