Dodgers’ Black Friday Wish List: Balancing Star Power with Hidden Gems in the 2023-24 Offseason

As the holiday season arrives, the Los Angeles Dodgers are already making their Black Friday wish list for the upcoming 2023-24 offseason. While they remain focused on top-tier free agents like Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto, the Dodgers are also on the lookout for affordable and talented players to bolster their roster.

Key Takeaways:

• The Dodgers are targeting reclamation projects and cost-effective deals in addition to pursuing top free agents.
• Noah Camras suggests Lucas Giolito as a potential signing, citing his two-year, $24 million deal with an opt-out after year one.
• Joe Kelly, a fan favorite, is another player the Dodgers hope to secure on a favorable contract.
• Brandon Woodruff, recently non-tendered, offers long-term potential for the Dodgers’ rotation.
• Outfielder Harrison Bader is an option for his elite defense and base-running skills.
• Jack Flaherty, an LA native, could be a value signing to bolster the starting pitching staff.
• Gio Urshela’s versatility in the infield and clutch hitting make him an appealing option for the Dodgers.

The holiday season is officially upon us, and while most people are busy making their shopping lists, the Los Angeles Dodgers are making their Black Friday wish list for the upcoming 2023-24 offseason. This year, the Dodgers are not just eyeing the top players on the market but are also on the lookout for hidden gems and cost-effective deals to strengthen their roster.

In a bid to strike a balance between securing top talent and managing their budget, the Dodgers are considering several players who may not be the biggest names but could still make a significant impact. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top choices on their Black Friday wish list:

1. Lucas Giolito

Noah Camras suggests that the Dodgers should target Lucas Giolito, a starting pitcher who had a challenging season in 2023. Giolito’s potential signing on a two-year deal worth $24 million with an opt-out option after the first year could be a wise move. A season with the Dodgers, working alongside pitching coach Mark Prior, might help revitalize Giolito’s career and provide the team with a strong back-of-the-rotation contributor.

2. Joe Kelly

Noel Sanchez hopes for a Black Friday deal that brings back Joe Kelly, a player beloved by the fanbase. Kelly, known for his exceptional performance when healthy, could provide valuable depth to the Dodgers’ bullpen. While the team’s top priority is starting pitching, securing Kelly on a favorable deal would be a welcome addition.

3. Brandon Woodruff

Matt Levine’s pick is Brandon Woodruff, a player who may not immediately impact the Dodgers in 2024 but could be a valuable asset for the 2025 season. With the Dodgers already planning to bolster their rotation in the short term, signing Woodruff is a forward-looking move with high upside. Woodruff’s All-Star-level talent in recent seasons makes him an attractive long-term investment.

The Dodgers’ Black Friday wish list also includes outfielder Harrison Bader, starting pitcher Jack Flaherty, and infield utility player Gio Urshela. These players each bring their unique strengths and potential contributions to the team.

As the Dodgers gear up for the offseason, they are not only aiming for the top players on the market but also exploring strategic acquisitions that could enhance their overall roster depth and competitiveness in the 2023-24 season.