The Los Angeles Dodgers have one glaring need this offseason after winning back-to-back World Series championships.
Los Angeles’ bullpen struggled this season. The Dodgers signed Tanner Scott to a four-year, $72 million contract last offseason, but in his first year with the team, the 31-year-old pitcher posted a 4.74 ERA and was moved off the closer role by the end of the season. With Rōki Sasaki eyeing a return to the Dodgers’ starting rotation, the team could use a bona fide star closer to bolster their bullpen.
MLB.com’s Manny Randhawa predicted that the Dodgers could pursue All-Star hurler Robert Suárez from the division rival San Diego Padres in free agency.
“The Dodgers’ run to their second consecutive World Series championship this year was impressive, especially considering the club’s bullpen was its weak link,” Randhawa wrote Monday. “L.A.’s relief corps finished the regular season tied for 20th in ERA, at 4.27. Suarez is one of the best options available on the free-agent market, particularly now that Ryan Helsley and Devin Williams are off the board.
“In four Major League seasons, all with the Padres, Suarez owns a 2.91 ERA with 77 saves, a National League-leading 40 of which came last season. He’s entering his age-35 campaign next year, but the Dodgers are rumored to be looking at shorter-term contracts for relievers, so there could be a match. The two-time All-Star could be a great fit just up the California coast in L.A., helping the Dodgers keep San Diego at bay to maintain their grip on NL West supremacy.”
Suárez posted a 2.97 ERA this season across 70 appearances. After being named an All-Star in back-to-back seasons, the 34-year-old chose to test free agency and opted out of the remainder of his contract with the Padres.
Bringing in Suárez would be a great move for Los Angeles’ bullpen. The Dodgers could add a star closer to bolster their bullpen and fix one of the few holes in their roster.
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