The Los Angeles Dodgers’ $1 billion spending spree last offseason played a key role in their World Series victory this October. Now, could president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman leverage the organization’s financial strength again to secure Baltimore Orioles ace in free agency?
According to FanGraphs’ Roster Resource, the Dodgers’ rotation is deep but full of uncertainties. Yoshinobu Yamamoto leads the group, followed by Shohei Ohtani, who hasn’t pitched since Tommy John surgery in 2023. Tyler Glasnow, Tony Gonsolin, and Dustin May all ended 2024 on the injured list, while Bobby Miller struggled with an 8.52 ERA over 56 innings.
Adding Burnes would provide the Dodgers with a reliable ace. The four-time All-Star has consistently started at least 28 games each season since 2021, including 30 or more from 2022-2024. In his final year before free agency, Burnes posted a 15-9 record with a 2.92 ERA, a 1.10 WHIP, and 181 strikeouts over 194 1/3 innings for the Orioles.
Burnes is the top starting pitcher available this offseason and is expected to command a massive contract. The Athletic’s Tim Britton projects a seven-year, $217 million deal. Could the Dodgers have the edge in this race? MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand thinks so, citing Burnes’ hometown advantage: the pitcher hails from Bakersfield, just 110 miles north of Dodger Stadium, which could make Los Angeles an appealing destination.
Given last winter’s historic spending spree that led to the Dodgers’ second championship since 2020, it’s unwise to count them out for any high-profile free agent. While there will be stiff competition for Burnes, Los Angeles seems well-positioned to make a serious run unless they opt for a different approach.
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