3 Burning Questions: Dodgers Offseason Priorities
The Los Angeles Dodgers are the reigning World Series champions, and Mookie Betts may not be kidding when he said that the other 29 MLB teams may have to wait for the next seven years to pass to have a shot at winning the Fall Classic.
Of course, the statement by Betts (referring to the remainder of his current contract, which ends after the 2032 campaign) is a bit far-fetched. However, there is no doubt that the Dodgers will be one of the most talented teams on paper when spring training opens and will likely be considered the favorite to represent the National League in the 2025 World Series.
Still, despite the talent that remains at Chavez Ravine, there are some questions surrounding the Dodgers this offseason. Here are three of the biggest that need to be answered:
Where will Betts play and what happens next?
Dodgers general manager Brandon Gomes has already said this offseason that Betts will likely move back to the infield for the 2025 season. That decision could have ripple effects on the Los Angeles roster, potentially opening up a spot in the outfield that needs to be filled and sending a current infielder (Tommy Edman? Gavin Lux? Miguel Rojas?) either to the bench, another position or off the roster.
If Betts were to play shortstop (a position he played in 65 games last season), the Dodgers may not need to chase Willy Adames, a shortstop who is considered one of the top free agents in the market this offseason. That could help the Dodgers pivot toward another free-agent pickup or re-sign a familiar face.
Will Teoscar Hernandez return to the Dodgers?
Hernandez was a constant threat at the plate for Los Angeles last season, capping off the year with a Silver Slugger after slashing .272/.339/.501 with 33 home runs and 99 RBI. Now a free agent, Hernandez has expressed a strong desire to return to Los Angeles on a long-term deal. Signing him to that deal would solve a big question in the outfield if Betts does move to the infield, as Hernandez could shift to right field to take over the position.
The 32-year-old slugger’s services won’t be cheap, but bringing him back for the 2025 season and beyond would quickly solidify the Los Angeles lineup.
What will the rotation look like?
When it comes to Dodgers pitching, there are so many questions to watch this offseason that the Los Angeles rotation could fill its own soap opera.
After big October moments, will free agents Walker Buehler and/or Jack Flaherty be back? Can Clayton Kershaw return to health and give the Dodgers one more season (or part of it)? Are the Dodgers really the favorites to land Japanese sensation Roki Sasaki? Could the Dodgers sign Corbin Burnes, Max Fried or another big pitching name on the free agent market? What impact will Shohei Ohtani have on the rotation? What about the number of injured starters from 2024, including Tyler Glasnow?
How the Los Angeles rotation looks for the season opener against the Detroit Tigers on March 27 will end what should be a fascinating personnel ride this offseason and spring.
