Los Angeles Dodgers in market for Aaron Judge: Report
The Los Angeles Dodgers appear to be legitimate contenders for 2022 American League MVP Aaron Judge. After an MLB-leading 111 wins in 2022, the club fell just short of their ultimate goal of a World Series. The franchise is now in the midst of remodeling its roster with several moves set to take place in the offseason.
Per a recent New York Post article, the Dodgers are looking at Aaron Judge and other top shortstops to get them over the hump.
Considering the organization has had one of the highest payrolls over the previous decade, nothing less than a championship will suffice for Dave Roberts.
Several high-profile players, including Trea Turner and Cody Bellinger, are free agents this offseason. Los Angeles has cleared six figures off their payroll and has the funds to go after a player like Aaron Judge.
"Dodgers potentially in play for Aaron Judge now. Cleared up more than $100M in salary. Other notable CF free agent options include: Brandon Nimmo, Andrew Benintendi, Kevin Kiermaier." - Danny Vietti
With Aaron Judge currently in California being wined and dined by the San Francisco Giants, rumors are swirling about Judge leaving New York.
The Los Angeles Dodgers are the latest club rumored to be interested in Aaron Judge
The New York Post also reported that the club wants to add a premier shortstop to fill the gap left by Trea Turner. According to many analysts, Trea Turner will not be re-signing with the Dodgers.
"This crop of shortstop free agents is absolutely stacked@MadDogUnleashed and @JonHeyman give their predictions & discuss ideal landing spots for the superstars on the market." - MLB Network
An elite shortstop in this market would cost anywhere north of $20 million yearly, depending on the player and length of the contract. Dansby Swanson, Carlos Correa and Xander Bogaerts are all free agents and could be a good fit in Los Angeles.
The New York Yankees are still the favorites to sign Judge, but there appears to be competition from their West Coast rivals. Expect to see a historic contract offer in the coming months for one of this generation's greatest talents.