Dodgers Rumors: Bryce Harper Still In Team's Plans? LA May Be Looking At Several Other Players

A number of questions surround the Los Angeles Dodgers' offseason strategy after a multiplayer deal involving two right-handed outfield bats and a starting pitcher. Team president Andrew Friedman almost certainly has another major deal in the works after saving roughly $17 million off the luxury-tax payroll for 2019 and while adding two prospects that can be included in a trade.

Are the Dodgers now the leading contender to sign prized free agent Bryce Harper? Will the Dodgers trade for a starting pitcher? Is a right-handed bat a priority? Are the Dodgers content with Austin Barnes at catcher until they promote one of their top prospects? Will Alex Verdugo be traded?

According to ESPN's Alden Gonzalez, Harper "badly wants to be a Dodger." The New York Yankees, Chicago White Sox and Philadelphia Phillies are also in the hunt. However, the Dodgers not only have the financial resources but the location to have the edge to get the slugger because of Harper's home in nearby Las Vegas. At issue appears to be the Dodgers' interest in giving Harper a shorter-term contract with a high average annual value.

Sources told John Paul Morosi of MLB.com that the Dodgers may be willing to part ways with Verdugo, considered one of the Dodgers' best young outfielders, to get Cleveland Indians starter Corey Kluber. The Dodgers also have middle infielder Jeter Downs and right-hander Josiah Gray — the two players acquired last week from the Cincinnati Reds — as potential players to include in a trade. The Indians appear to be looking to shed salary from their payroll, as Kluber will earn $17 million in 2019.

Bob Nightengale of USA Today reported Saturday that the Dodgers are in the market for a second baseman and a catcher.

Some of the names that have been mentioned include a trade for Miami Marlins catcher J.T. Realmuto and signing free-agent second baseman D.J. LeMahieu. Free-agent outfielder A.J. Pollock, who bats from the right side, is another option.

Morosi noted that the Dodgers are also interested in Detroit Tigers outfielder Nick Castellanos, who will be a free agent at the end of the season and will make just $6 million in 2019. The 26-year-old bats from the right side and is coming off a strong season, batting .298 with 23 home runs and 89 RBI.