The Los Angeles Dodgers made their desires of adding an elite talent to their roster this offseason well known, and after options in free agency elected for other teams, they are left to accomplish that goal via trade.
L.A. most prominently has been linked to potential deals involving Mike Clevinger and Francisco Lindor, and Mookie Betts and David Price. Both the Cleveland Indians and Boston Red Sox are believed to have a desire to get below the luxury tax threshold for the 2020 season.
However, the teams publicly stated there is not at absolute directive or goal to move their respective franchise pillar, and the Indians and Red Sox maintained Lindor and Betts would not be traded before Opening Day.
Nevertheless the Dodgers and Red Sox reportedly are still in talks on a potential Betts trade, with Boston nearing a final decision, according to Andy McCullough of The Athletic
After months of posturing and preliminary discussions, the team remains engaged with Boston about a trade involving Mookie Betts, according to people familiar with the situation.
In recent days, though, dialogue with Boston has approached a resolution on Betts.
Despite a prior indication suggesting it was not the case, the Dodgers acquiring Price as part of a Betts trade is said to be among the various possibilities:
One scenario being discussed would involve former American League Cy Young award winner David Price.
Price is owed $96 million over the next three years remaining on his contract. If they were to part with the 34-year-old, the Red Sox reportedly would seek a team that assumes responsibility for most, if not all, of his salary.
The Dodgers certainly have the financial wherewithal and flexibility moving forward to do such, but president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman’s discipline figures to lend to a different solution being more likely.
If the Dodgers manage to trade for Betts, he would provide them with a dynamic right-handed bat atop the lineup and further strengthen the outfield. Though, Betts ultimately could also wind up being a one-year rental as he’s due to become a free agent after the 2020 season.
The Red Sox reportedly extended multiple contract offers over the past several months, including one for 10 years and $300 million. Every intention points to Betts preferring to reach the open market.
In addition to the Dodgers, the Red Sox reportedly are engaged in trade talks with the San Diego Padres.
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