Dodgers fans have grown accustomed to the team pursuing elite players, whether through free agency or blockbuster trade scenarios. The 2024-25 Hot Stove season is more of the same, as the team is connected by rumor, supposition, or innuendo with the elite free agents and trade targets. Before the team assembles next February for Spring Training, there will be star power added to the roster – perhaps an All-Star-level starting pitcher (or two), another outfielder (or two), and perhaps a new shortstop.
Names? Your guess is as good – or better – than anyone else. But there is no doubt that they will be among the best in MLB, although not all of the additions will be stars.
Like side dishes can take Thanksgiving dinner from good to wonderful, supporting players who often ‘fly under the radar’ can elevate a roster to a higher level. Seldom do those complementary players get the accolades. Nevertheless, they are valued by their teammates for their season-long contributions.
Which players might the Dodgers acquire who are more blue-collar than star quality?
Number one on my list is Daulton Varsho, the 28-year-old center fielder for the Toronto Blue Jays. His lifetime offense is marginal (96 wRC+; 4% below Major League average), but his defense is legit Gold-Glove-quality, with speed and above average arm strength. Adding Varsho would make 29-year-old utility infielder/outfielder Tommy Edman the Dodgers regular shortstop, pairing with second baseman Mookie Betts for a center-of-the-diamond defense that Dodgers pitchers would relish.
(Jeff Wheele)
Varsho comes with another skill set the team could use – he originally came up to the Majors as a catcher. Having him on the roster would provide Dodgers manager Dave Roberts with an emergency catcher who has literally been there, done that.
Who might the Dodgers trade for Varsho? Reportedly, the Blue Jays are desperate to strengthen their bullpen, adding a backup catcher, and right handed hitting. Perhaps right-handed reliever Michael Grove, catcher Hunter Feduccia, and infield/outfield prospect Andre Lipcius would put Varsho in center field for the Dodgers.
Varsho in center, re-signing fan-favorite Teoscar Hernández for left, and moving Andy Pages to his more natural position in right would provide the defense and offense to help carry the team to the 2025 World Series.
If the Dodgers have Edman penciled in as their regular center fielder, are there any under the radar shortstops the team should pursue?
Our next topic.
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