The Dodgers have been identified as a potential destination for a star pitcher with a $324 million contract. With the team hitting its stride in 2024, boasting 11 wins in 15 games, they are well-positioned for a strong playoff run. While fans remain cautiously optimistic due to past playoff disappointments, the team’s current roster suggests they’re built to win now, with a championship window open for the foreseeable future.
However, the 2024 season has underscored the importance of having a deep pitching rotation. As the Dodgers look ahead to 2025, they may need to focus on strengthening their starting pitching, especially since they don’t have many long-term commitments on the mound beyond this year. This could lead to a surprising move in free agency, such as pursuing Yankees ace Gerrit Cole, who won the 2022 AL Cy Young Award.
Bleacher Report analyst Kerry Miller has listed the Dodgers as a potential destination for Cole, ranking them fourth among possible landing spots. While the Dodgers have some solid options for their 2025 rotation, including Tyler Glasnow and rookie Yoshinobu Yamamoto, adding a proven playoff performer like Cole could be appealing. Cole has an impressive postseason track record with a 2.93 ERA and 0.95 WHIP in 17 starts. If the Dodgers’ pitching falters again in 2024, they might be willing to spend big to avoid a repeat in 2025.
One complication in signing Cole is his current contract with the Yankees, which includes a clause allowing him to opt out after this season unless the Yankees extend his contract by adding another year and $36 million, bringing the total to $360 million over 10 years. The general consensus is that the Yankees will take this step, especially given Cole’s consistent performance over his career. However, there is a possibility, albeit slim, that the Yankees could let Cole walk if they face a financial crunch due to a potential bidding war for outfielder Juan Soto. This situation is something the Dodgers will be closely watching.
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