Unsung Heroes: Potential Hidden Gems in the Dodgers’ 2024 Roster
While the Dodgers target Ohtani, explore these under-the-radar players who could be game-changers.
As the MLB offseason unfolds, the Los Angeles Dodgers are faced with crucial decisions regarding their roster for the 2024 season. While their pursuit of Shohei Ohtani grabs headlines, there are under-the-radar players who could prove to be valuable additions. In this article, we’ll explore three such players who may fly under the radar but could make a significant impact for the Dodgers.
Key Takeaways:
- Luis Severino, once a top-tier pitcher, seeks a fresh start with the Dodgers after injuries hampered his career. At 29, he’s primed for a resurgence.
- Adam Duvall, with his right-handed bat, could fill a key role for the Dodgers in the outfield, and he brings valuable playoff experience.
- Jack Flaherty, a potential one-year addition, offers the hometown appeal and a chance to bolster the Dodgers’ rotation with something to prove.
The Los Angeles Dodgers are known for their knack for finding hidden gems in the MLB offseason, and as the winter months roll in, they face intriguing opportunities to strengthen their roster for the 2024 season. While the pursuit of two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani dominates headlines, there are other players who might not grab as much attention but could prove to be valuable assets for the team.
Luis Severino, once regarded as one of the best pitchers in baseball, has seen his career derailed by injuries in recent seasons. However, at just 29 years old, he still has plenty of potential to tap into. Despite posting a high 6.65 ERA over 19 starts last year, Severino showed promise in his final five starts, allowing more than three runs only once. The Dodgers might view him as their next reclamation project, offering him a prove-it contract that could set him up for a big payday in the future.
Adam Duvall is another name on the Dodgers’ radar. Linked to the team around the trade deadline, his right-handed bat could provide a much-needed boost to the outfield. Duvall displayed his power, hitting .247 with 21 home runs and 58 runs batted in during the previous season. He could fill the role left by David Peralta and, possibly, come at an affordable price during this offseason. Moreover, Duvall’s veteran playoff experience would be a valuable addition to the team.
Jack Flaherty, like Severino, might join the Dodgers on a one-year prove-it deal, presenting an opportunity for the hometown kid to make a triumphant return. Splitting time between the St. Louis Cardinals and Baltimore Orioles, Flaherty recorded an 8-9 record with a 4.99 ERA for the season. He could serve as a back-end starter for the Dodgers and bring a hunger to prove his worth next season.
“Flaherty was once considered among the best young pitchers in the game — he finished fourth in NL Cy Young voting in 2019 as a 23-year-old — but the past two years have been bumpy. Flaherty has a 4.84 ERA in 38 games (35 starts) for the Cardinals and Orioles since the start of 2022.”
In addition to these three potential hidden gems, there’s a bonus player to watch out for: Shota Imanaga. While the spotlight is on Japanese star Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Imanaga offers a cost-effective alternative for the Dodgers. As a left-handed pitcher, he could solidify the team’s rotation and become a reliable member for seasons to come.
“Imanaga started the gold medal game for Team Japan in this year’s World Baseball Classic, kicking off a year that saw him go 7-5 with a 2.66 ERA for the Yokohama BayStars. The 30-year-old has been one of the best pitchers in Japan since he broke into the Central League in 2016, posting more than a strikeout per inning throughout his career.”
As the Dodgers navigate the offseason, these underrated acquisitions could play pivotal roles in their quest for another World Series championship.
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