The Los Angeles Dodgers made arguably this generation's most significant free agent signing, securing the commitment of Japanese sensation Shohei Ohtani from cross-town rivals Los Angeles Angels.
The impending signing of the pitcher/designated hitter is poised to be the most significant professional contract in sports history, amounting to $700 million over ten years.
However, further strategic moves are necessary for the Dodgers to solidify themselves as a World Series contending team.
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3 moves the Los Angeles Dodgers should make after signing Shohei Othani:
1. Add a star pitcher.
Ohtani cannot pitch for the 2024 season and will exclusively serve as a designated hitter. This is a result of the season-ending Tommy John surgery he underwent in September to repair a torn UCL in his right elbow.
As a result, the Dodgers urgently need a pitcher to fill the void, as they currently face a shortage in that particular position.
Even if Dodgers franchise legend free agent Clayton Kershaw decides to return for another run, he is not anticipated to take the mound until the summer following a shoulder surgery.
Corbin Burnes of the Milwaukee Brewers is the name that comes to mind to fill the needs of the Dodgers.
The 29-year-old right-hander is a Cy Young award winner and three-time MLB All-Star. He has maintained an impressive ERA+ of 129 throughout his career, amassing 870 strikeouts in 709 1/3 innings. In the 2023 season, Burnes posted an ERA of 3.39 across 32 starts for Milwaukee.
Acquiring Burnes could significantly bolster the front of the Dodgers' rotation, and the organization has the financial means to secure him with a contract extension, making both parties happy.
2. Sign Yoshinobu Yamamoto.
The Dodgers have already secured the signing of Japanese sensation Ohtani, but they could further strengthen their roster by adding another Japanese standout in pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto.
The 25-year-old is the first player in professional baseball history to win the Triple Crown in three consecutive years, and he is considered the best pitcher in Japan.
Having been with the Orix Buffaloes since 2017, the team announced that Yamamoto would be posted to the MLB. The pitcher was officially posted on November 20, making him one of the most after-sought players in the open market.
This move will enhance the Dodgers' standing in the Japanese market even further.
3. Bolster their outfield.
With seven-time MLB All-Star Mookie Betts transitioning to the role of second baseman for the 2024 season, the Dodgers' outfield lineup seems thin.
While promising, young players such as Jonny Deluca, Michael Busch, and Miguel Vargas remain unproven options.
It will be crucial for the team to sign at least one reliable outfielder in free agency.
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