True to form for Los Angeles Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman, the club has been connected to an array of players this offseason — both in free agency and on the trade market.
The Dodgers notably met with Gerrit Cole, Anthony Rendon and Stephen Strasburg, only for each of the three marquee free agents to sign elsewhere. L.A. additionally has held reported interest in Josh Donaldson and Hyun-Jin Ryu, among others, and are said to be engaged with the Cleveland Indians in Francisco Lindor trade talks.
The Dodgers’ interest in Donaldson is a bit curious considering his age (34 years old) and injury history. Though, he’s coming off a bounce-back season with the Atlanta Braves after only appearing in 52 games in 2018.
After Rendon signed with the L.A. Angels, Donaldson was left as the best available third baseman. Interest from multiple teams has driven up the expectation of the type of contract he will receive, and according to Jon Heyman of MLB Network, the Dodgers are unlikely to extend to four years:
Twins like Nats are said to have been very aggressive in bid to land star 3B Josh Donaldson. Big question is whether incumbent Braves will match 4 years. Belief is their intention was to stop at 3, but things can change in free agency. Dodgers, Rangers seen unlikely to go 4.
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) December 20, 2019
In addition to potentially receiving a four-year deal, it was recently reported Donaldson’s annual salary could reach $25 million. Although some believe Donaldson has a preference to re-sign with the Braves, the Washington Nationals are thought to be willing to outbid other suitors.
The Nationals of course have added motivation in the wake of losing Rendon via free agency. Meanwhile, the Dodgers don’t face such a need. Justin Turner — who was willing to accept a move to first base for the betterment of the team — remains one of the top players at his natural third base position.
As the Dodgers look to add to their roster, they reportedly remain involved with the Indians for a potential Lindor trade, and held exploratory talks with the Boston Red Sox for Mookie Betts.
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