Title: Dodgers and Reds Consider Trades, Free Agency Decisions, and Manager Connections
Los Angeles Dodgers:
The Los Angeles Dodgers are actively exploring trade options to bolster their roster as they prepare for the upcoming season. Two players on their radar are right-hander Corbin Burnes and shortstop Willy Adames. Burnes would provide much-needed depth for the Dodgers’ rotation, while Adames would bring a defensive upgrade to the shortstop position. An interesting twist to this potential trade is the possibility of Gavin Lux, the Dodgers’ current shortstop, being traded back to the Milwaukee Brewers in exchange for Burnes, and becoming their second baseman.
In addition to these trades, the Dodgers are also in search of a right-handed utility/outfield bat. A reunion with free agent Kiké Hernández is a possibility, despite the fact that he recently underwent double-hernia surgery. However, the Dodgers expect Hernández to be fully recovered and ready for spring training.
Cincinnati Reds:
The Cincinnati Reds are considering their trade options for the upcoming season, with a focus on obtaining controllable starting pitching. One potential target is right-handed pitcher Tyler Glasnow from the Tampa Bay Rays. The weaker NL Central division and the Reds’ competitive performance last season have made acquiring starting pitching a priority for the team. However, the Reds may not be willing to meet the asking price for Dylan Cease of the Chicago White Sox, who is under control for two more seasons. The Reds highly value their young talent and would prefer to hold onto them if possible.
Potential Precursors to a Deal for Dylan Cease:
Industry insiders speculated that the Atlanta Braves’ trade with the Seattle Mariners, which involved outfielder Jarred Kelenic, lefty Marco Gonzales, and first baseman Evan White, could be a precursor to a deal for Dylan Cease. However, the subsequent trade of Gonzales to the Pittsburgh Pirates suggests that there is no direct link between the two trades. The Braves, interested in Kelenic, consider him a young left-handed hitter with five more seasons of club control.
Free Agency and Contract Situations:
Free-agent left-hander Eduardo Rodríguez has been meeting with several clubs in-person during the winter meetings, including his agent, Gene Mato. Clubs have made offers or discussed potential deals with Rodríguez, who is expected to command a contract worth around five years, $90 million or four years, $82 million.
Another free agent generating interest is Isaiah Kiner-Falefa, who had an exceptional season as a super-utility player. The Miami Marlins and Milwaukee Brewers are two teams that have shown interest in signing him. Kiner-Falefa’s versatility and age make a multi-year deal quite possible.
Noteworthy Connections and Contract Discussions:
Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns, Cubs manager Craig Counsell, and Brewers manager Pat Murphy were coincidentally on the same flight from Milwaukee to Nashville. Despite representing different teams, they maintain strong relationships within the baseball community. Stearns spoke highly of Counsell after their potential reunion with the Mets did not materialize, highlighting their mutual respect and admiration.
Meanwhile, Red Sox manager Alex Cora finds himself in a unique situation. He is currently unsigned beyond this season and working under a new head of baseball operations. When asked about his contract situation at the winter meetings, Cora expressed comfort and prioritized improving the team before discussing his own contract. The Red Sox plan to engage in further discussions about Cora’s contract in due course.
As teams and players navigate various trade options, free agency decisions, and contract negotiations, the baseball world eagerly awaits news of deals that could impact the upcoming season. Stay tuned for more updates.
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