Originally published by DodgerBlue.com
The Los Angeles Dodgers attacked their roster in free agency by adding a group of supremely talented players in Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto, while also acquiring Tyler Glasnow from the Tampa Bay Rays.
Because of the large financial commitment to all three, the Dodgers believe in what they can do on the field. Filling large needs in the starting rotation for the upcoming season will help manager Dave Roberts navigate the rest of his roster as he will be able to rely on Yamamoto and Glasnow for bulk outings.
Since president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman took over the Dodgers, they’ve had a knack for being picky about the type of player they bring in. Roberts recently noted that he’s in one of baseball’s most sought after positions and how that same approach to bring in high character pieces will elevate their current group.
“Like I said, our ownership and front office did a fantastic job, a lot of man-hours trying to work with both sides to get a deal done,” Roberts said. “And again, the talent is the talent, and we’re all very excited about it, but these men are equally men of character.
“And I think that, I know that, our fan base is going to really take to these men individually. And you know what it’s doing, not only for Los Angeles, our country, our sport, but the country of Japan. So this is a big win. This has been a monumental offseason for all of us.”
Roberts has been fortunate to lead such a talented roster for years as Mookie Betts paired up with Freddie Freeman is a great one-two combination to lean on. Their quiet, veteran approach to winning is consistent, but the front office bringing in three, seasoned stars is a massive step forward.
Yamamoto was given the richest contract to any starting pitcher in league history, and those who have played around him have admired his dedication. His competitive nature is a necessary thing for the Dodgers, who lacked an ace when they needed it in the 2023 postseason.
How Shohei Ohtani can impact the current Dodgers core
The addition of Ohtani to Betts and Freeman at the top of the Dodgers’ lineup is an incredible plus on multiple fronts.
From a talent standpoint, it might be the best trio in Major League Baseball. They face competition from the Atlanta Braves with Ronald Acuña Jr., Matt Olson and Austin Riley, but the Dodgers are loaded with their big three.
Ohtani’s competitive nature has been displayed throughout his tenure in MLB, but his peak was shown during the 2023 World Baseball Classic. His drive and desire to win when combined with the situation the Dodgers provide should be a recipe which will allow him to thrive.
The Dodgers saddling their wagon to Ohtani was a $700 million decision that has been years in the making. Putting the best player of this generation, and arguably MLB history, on a roster with two top-five MVP candidates will boost the rest is also a uniquely opportune moment for the franchise.
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