The Los Angeles Dodgers made quick work at the outset of the offseason to re-sign David Freese and agree to a contract extension with Clayton Kershaw, but have largely been quiet since. Other deals include Hyun-Jin Ryu accepting the qualifying offer and manager Dave Roberts being extended.
Otherwise, the bulk of offseason news for the Dodgers entailed departures in their front office and coaching staff. Nevertheless, the team has been connected to plenty of free agency and trade speculation during this week’s Winter Meetings.
All signs point to the Dodgers likely unloading an outfielder or two. Thus far, trade talks are said to have been held with the Cincinnati Reds, Cleveland Indians and Miami Marlins, among others.
It also appears the Dodgers have discussed a trade with the St. Louis Cardinals in which they would acquire Jose Martinez, per Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic:
This one is a surprise. #Dodgers talking to #STLCards about Jose Martinez, sources tell The Athletic. LAD could play the defensively challenged Martinez at first base, with Muncy at second and Bellinger in center.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) December 12, 2018
The 30-year-old is coming off a productive season with the Cardinals that saw him bat .305/.364/.457 with 30 doubles, 17 home runs and 83 RBI. Though, Martinez’s batting average, on-base percentage and slugging all dipped from 2017.
Furthermore, his fit on the Dodgers roster is not clear. As noted by Rosenthal, Martinez is not renowned for his glove at first base. He also played left and right field for the Cardinals last season, though the Dodgers have a surplus of outfielders.
