The Los Angeles Dodgers are fresh off a World Series victory, but they’ve consistently shown they’re never content to rest on their laurels. Known for their relentless pursuit of excellence, the team has been linked to some of the biggest names in Major League Baseball. With ownership and the front office committed to bringing more championships to Los Angeles, their determination to improve is undeniable.
There’s little doubt the Dodgers will bolster their roster this offseason. The main question is: which players will they target?
Erik Beaston of Bleacher Report predicts the Dodgers will sign Him, a standout left-handed pitcher who has been among the league’s best when healthy.
“Corbin Burnes, Max Fried, and Blake Snell are the top free-agent starters available this offseason,” Beaston wrote on November 25. “Fried is coming off a season where he battled through injury to post an 11-10 record with a 3.25 ERA and 166 strikeouts, playing a pivotal role in the Braves’ late push to the playoffs.
“All three are realistic options for the Dodgers, but signing Fried or Snell would give them more flexibility to pursue additional free agents. Prediction: The Dodgers sign Fried.”
Fried Contract Prediction
Money isn’t a major obstacle for the Los Angeles Dodgers. When they identify a player they believe can help them secure a World Series title, they’re willing to do whatever it takes to acquire them.
Though signing Max Fried would be costly and add another significant contract to the roster of the most expensive team in MLB, the Dodgers have compelling reasons to pursue him.
Jim Bowden of The Athletic recently projected Fried to land a six-year, $174 million deal, which reflects the market value for a pitcher of his caliber.
“Max Fried has a career record of 73-36 with a 3.07 ERA and 3.29 FIP. He’s a two-time All-Star, a two-time Gold Glove winner, and has twice finished in the top five in Cy Young Award voting. He’s made 28 to 30 starts in three of the last four seasons but has dealt with injuries, including left forearm neuritis over the past two years.
“His medical evaluations will ultimately determine whether he secures a market-value deal or has to accept a reduced contract. The Braves have repeatedly tried to extend Fried in recent years without success. They’ll continue their efforts this offseason and monitor how he performs on the market, as they are eager to bring him back,” Bowden noted on October 31.
Why the Dodgers Could Use Fried
The Los Angeles Dodgers’ 2024 season is undeniably impressive, capped by their World Series victory. However, a closer look reveals they deserve even greater recognition. Despite a pitching staff plagued by injuries throughout the year, the Dodgers’ front office responded proactively, making key moves to keep their championship hopes alive.
Ultimately, they overcame significant challenges on the mound to claim the title.
Looking ahead, adding Max Fried to their rotation makes a lot of sense. With potential pitching setbacks in 2025 due to players recovering from injuries, Fried would provide a reliable, durable arm. MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand sees this fit, writing on November 20:
“Given the Dodgers’ injury issues within the rotation last season, adding a dependable starter would seem to be on their to-do list this winter. Fried has thrown at least 165 innings in four of the past five 162-game seasons, and as a Southern California native who grew up going to games at Dodger Stadium, he won’t have to be sold on the perks of living in Los Angeles.”
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