The Dodgers have been incredibly active, in talks with many teams, trying to move multiple players and ultimately preparing to make moves in order to upgrade the team. With less than a day left of the 2018 Winter Meetings, there is still a lot of unfinished business around the league.
- According to Mark Feinsand, the Dodgers are “actively” attempting to move Matt Kemp and Yasiel Puig. When Matt Kemp arrived in Los Angeles last year it felt as though he was a prime candidate to be moved via trade or waivers. Instead he went on to become an all star, which my have help bolster his value this offseason with only one year left on his contract. Yasiel Puig should be much easier to move, as he is expected to make about $11 million in arbitration. He also has age, defensive abilities and speed on his side. Both deals appear to be fueled by salary and luxury tax purposes.
- The Dodgers and Reds have been in contact with each other, discussing “Lots of names, lots of proposals” according to Ken Rosenthal. It appears that the Reds are attempting to move Homer Bailey and his $28 million to Los Angeles along with some prospects. Bailey however carries an average annual value of only $17.5 million (which is the value calculated for the Luxury Tax). A deal consisting players such as Matt Kemp, Yasiel Puig, Rich Hill or Alex Wood could put the Dodgers in a better situation luxury tax wise. However, Bailey would need to waive his no trade clause for any deal to be completed.
- The Dodgers and Cardinals have discussed a deal involving 1B/OF Jose Martinez. Martinez is coming off quite a productive season offensively but the recent addition of Paul Goldschmidt coupled with Martinez’s poor defensive skills leaves him with no spot in St. Louis. The Cardinals have reportedly been looking to add left handed relief pitchers. Tony Cingrani, who re-signed on a one year deal with the Dodgers is one name in particular who may fit the bill.
- As well, the Dodgers and Indians have reportedly stayed in steady contact with each other about starting pitcher Corey Kluber and Trevor Bauer. However, now we now more details about the return the Indians want. All along it had been known they had interest in the Dodgers outfielders, but according to a report from Jon Morosi, Cleveland has their sights set on a young outfielder to be the centerpiece in a trade for Kluber. More specifically, they want top prospect Alex Verdugo in a trade for their ace.
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Ian Nielson has served as a writer and contributor for @DodgersLowDown since 2018. Follow him on twitter @inielson23