Dodgers Trade Rumors: Multiple Starting Pitchers Being Pursued By Los Angeles In 2018 MLB Offseason

Improving the rotation appears to be the Los Angeles Dodgers’ main focus in the 2018-2019 MLB offseason. L.A. is reportedly looking to trade for a frontline starter, in addition to adding another pitcher in free agency.

The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal had previously reported that the Dodgers were in discussions to acquire one of the Cleveland Indians’ starting pitchers, and MLB.com’s Jon Morosi reported Thursday that Los Angeles was a contender to land either Corey Kluber, Trevor Bauer or Carlos Carrasco. Cleveland could trade a starter for a package that includes minor leaguers and a major-league outfielder.

Kluber, Bauer and Carrasco were all among the best AL starters last season. The New York Yankees reportedly had trade discussions with the Indians earlier in the offseason.

The Dodgers haven’t been closely linked to the top free-agent starting pitchers like Patrick Corbin and Dallas Keuchel. Instead, the team might be making a move with an eye on the 2020 season.

According to Fancred’s Jon Heyman, Los Angeles has made an offer to Garrett Richards. The free agent is expected to miss all of the 2019 season as he recovers from Tommy John Surgery.

Los Angeles would’ve had more competition for Richards if he didn’t get hurt. The 30-year-old had a 3.66 ERA and a 1.28 WHIP in 16 starts last season. Richards has a career 3.54 ERA, though injuries limited him to just six starts in both 2016 and 2017.

The San Diego Padres have also reportedly made Richards an offer.

Los Angeles’ 3.38 team ERA was the best in the National League last season and second only to the Houston Astros in all of MLB. The Dodgers led the NL with a 3.19 ERA from their rotation.