As the calendar flips to February, spring training baseball is just around the corner. While most clubs have the bulk of their roster done, it seems the Dodgers are still working hard at a blockbuster move that would change the complexion of their lineup.
Yes, Los Angeles reportedly remains engaged in talks with the Boston Red Sox for star outfielder Mookie Betts. After Betts rejected a contract extension offer from Boston, the team appears to be in a scramble to move the 2018 AL MVP, possibly before the start of spring training.
And one former Red Sox hero fully expects Betts to move before camp opens for Boston.
When speaking on the rumors, 2004 World Series champion Kevin Millar spoke on MLB Network’s “Intentional Talk” this week about the likelihood that Mookie gets moved soon, and whether the Dodgers will be the team to land him.
Yeah, I do — the Dodgers haven’t done a whole lot, obviously, because they’re good … but I think that this is something that could be done … I think something happens before spring training. I think this is real, I don’t think this is fake news.
So while the potential (and likelihood) of a trade increases, so do the trade scenarios. One of the biggest that has heard often this off-season is the potential to package left-handed pitcher David Price in with Betts in a deal that helps Boston clear payroll.
Patrick Creighton of ESPN radio in Houston has oddly been vocal on this subject over the last few days. He touched further on it Friday night.
Per sources: sticking point in #RedSox #Dodgers deal for Mookie Betts right now is how much of David Price’s deal (3/$96m) LA will absorb
Boston wants LA to take all of it. Dodgers haggling, trying to get Boston to pay a part.
They believe two sides will get it worked out.
— PCreight (@PCreighton1) February 1, 2020
In other reports, a person who claims to have some knowledge of the situation said there are four trade scenarios currently in play, with only one including Price.
I was told there were four potential trade scenarios and only one of them had Mookie and Price going together.
— Jared Carrabis (@Jared_Carrabis) February 1, 2020
In terms of trade packages, we’ve already heard that the Dodgers will hold on to Gavin Lux no matter what, but may be open to moving outfielder Alex Verdugo, in the right deal. A package including the majority of two big money contracts coming back to LA affords the team the opportunity to hold on to more prospects in a deal.
Something that seems right up Andrew Friedman’s alley.
The Dodgers have the prospects to get any move done, and they have the financial might to take on just about any contract… but will they pull the trigger? While the San Diego Padres remain in the mix for Betts’ services, all eyes are on Boston and Los Angeles to make this deal happen.
NEXT: How Much is Too Much for Mookie Betts?
