Dodgers Decline Lance Lynn’s 2024 Option: What’s Next for the Veteran Pitcher?

In a surprising turn of events, the Los Angeles Dodgers have decided not to exercise the $18 million club option for the 2024 season for right-handed pitcher Lance Lynn, as reported by Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic. Lynn, who was acquired by the team from the Chicago White Sox at the trade deadline, had been a valuable innings-eater for the Dodgers.

However, Lynn’s postseason performance took a nosedive, culminating in a disastrous four-home run inning. As a result, the Dodgers have opted not to commit to paying him $18 million for the upcoming season. While this move may signal the end of Lynn’s time in Los Angeles, a potential reunion between the two parties is not entirely off the table.

Key Takeaways:

• The Los Angeles Dodgers have declined Lance Lynn’s $18 million club option for the 2024 season.
• Lynn had been a reliable contributor to the team’s regular-season success but struggled significantly in the postseason, leading to the decision.
• While the Dodgers are in need of starting pitching, Lynn’s home run issues made his price tag unjustifiable.

The decision to decline Lance Lynn’s option was undoubtedly a tough one for the Dodgers, given their pressing need for starting pitching. Lynn had effectively filled his role during the regular season, and retaining him could have solidified the team’s rotation for the upcoming year. However, the glaring problem of Lynn’s susceptibility to home runs, particularly in high-stakes playoff situations, made it difficult for the organization to justify the substantial financial commitment of $18 million.

As a result of the decision, Lance Lynn will now enter free agency, opening the door to potential negotiations between the player and the team for a more affordable contract. The Dodgers have also opted to pay a $1 million buyout to decline the option, allowing Lynn to explore other opportunities on the market.

The Dodgers have declined right-hander Lance Lynn’s $18 million club option for 2024, a source tells The Athletic. He will receive a $1 million buyout.

A reunion is still possible between the two sides. Dodgers expected to be in the pitching market this winter.

— Fabian Ardaya (@FabianArdaya) November 3, 2023

The future remains uncertain for Lance Lynn and the Los Angeles Dodgers. While the door to a return to Dodger Stadium may not be entirely closed, Lynn’s postseason struggles have prompted the team to take a cautious approach to their pitching staff’s future. Dodgers fans and baseball enthusiasts alike will be eagerly watching for updates on Lynn’s free agency journey and the team’s subsequent moves in the offseason.