With Spring Training drawing nearer, the Hot Stove appears to be heating up. The Los Angeles Dodgers have made it known that they are serious about a three-peat. To that end, they have already solidified their bullpen by signing top closer Edwin Diaz to a three-year deal, and they are in the market for a corner outfielder. Ken Rosenthal of the Athletic is reporting that the Milwaukee Brewers will probably trade starting pitcher Freddy Peralta, and Los Angeles is interested.
Dodgers, Braves Among Teams To Show Interest In Freddy Peralta https://t.co/jXSv6q91Ic pic.twitter.com/yJ187WAFCF
— MLB Trade Rumors (@mlbtraderumors) January 5, 2026
An Insurance Policy?
“There is no such thing as too much pitching” is a motto with which the Dodgers are very familiar. At least half of their starting rotation has missed significant portions of the last two seasons due to injury. Their bullpen has suffered as well. As such, the Dodgers have had to be very inventive when it comes to getting through the gauntlet of October baseball. The 30-year-old right-hander would definitely be a boon to a rotation stocked with talent. It would certainly add depth to the World-Champion roster.
Is there a Catch?
If Los Angeles were to acquire Peralta, it would be from a position of abundance. However, it would cost them more than money. Peralta has anchored the Brewers’ staff for several years. In 2025, the veteran pitched over 176 innings with 204 strikeouts and an Earned Run Average of 2.70. He is dependable and durable in an age of pitching that isn’t. It’s ace-level stuff. Added to that, he won’t be a free agent until next winter, and his contract is team-friendly.
The Asking Price
The Brewers are asking for a tremendous return in exchange for Peralta. This includes, but is not limited t0, at least one Major League starting pitcher. The Dodger hurler who seems to draw the most interest is Emmet Sheehan. The prospect of adding Peralta is not out of the realm of possibility. However, getting an outfielder seems more of an immediate need.
Whatever happens, the days before Spring Training will be interesting.
Main Photo Credits- Michael McLoone – USA Today Sports