Dodgers Could Dump Popular Starter to Mariners Following Latest Free-Agent Splash
The Los Angeles Dodgers have long been known for their deep, star-studded roster and for making big splashes in the free-agent market. However, the team’s recent activity in free agency may result in difficult decisions about the future of some of their current players—decisions that could send one of their most popular starting pitchers packing. The Seattle Mariners, a team that has been steadily building a competitive roster, could be the destination for this player.
Following the Dodgers’ acquisition of a marquee free-agent, the rotation now appears overcrowded, and the front office is left with a tough choice: Do they hold onto their current star pitchers, or do they make room for the new signing by trading one of their own? While this is a common dilemma in baseball, it is especially relevant for the Dodgers, who are known to be both aggressive and strategic in managing their roster. This situation could lead to the trade of a popular starting pitcher to the Mariners, which would drastically alter the landscape of both teams heading into the 2025 season.
The Dodgers’ Latest Free-Agent Splash
The Los Angeles Dodgers have made headlines recently with their signing of a high-profile free agent—one that promises to elevate their already impressive roster even further. While the specific identity of this free agent may change depending on real-time events, for the sake of this article, let’s assume the Dodgers made a significant signing to fill a gap in their roster, whether that be a high-caliber pitcher or a key bat.
The addition of this player brings an immediate upgrade but also presents the problem of roster congestion. The Dodgers already boast one of the deepest pitching rotations in Major League Baseball (MLB), including some household names who have been integral parts of the team’s success in recent years. With the addition of a new face, the rotation now appears oversaturated. There simply isn’t enough room for everyone.
With multiple talented pitchers in the mix, it’s likely that the Dodgers could look to trade a player who has been a fixture in their rotation, but who might no longer fit with the team’s future plans. This brings us to the popular starter potentially heading to Seattle—the Mariners, a team in need of proven pitching depth, could be a perfect fit.
Who Could the Dodgers Trade?
The Dodgers’ rotation, stacked with talented pitchers, could have a few potential candidates for trade. Some of the players in question are household names, widely regarded as integral to the team’s success in recent years. These are not bad pitchers by any means, but with the Dodgers looking to make room for their latest acquisition, one of them could be sent packing.
Here are some candidates who might be on the trading block:
- Julio Urías – Julio Urías has been one of the Dodgers’ most consistent pitchers over the past few seasons. As a left-handed ace, Urías has proven to be a vital part of the rotation and has performed well on the big stage in playoff situations. However, his contract could be a key factor in the decision-making process. Urías is due for a sizable contract extension, and the Dodgers may decide that it’s better to trade him now rather than pay a premium for a pitcher who might soon be crowded out of the rotation. His value on the trade market is high, and a team like the Mariners could offer a significant return for a pitcher with his pedigree.
- Clayton Kershaw – Clayton Kershaw is a future Hall of Famer and has long been the face of the Dodgers’ pitching staff. However, as Kershaw gets older, his effectiveness has started to wane slightly. He is still a valuable pitcher, but there are concerns about his durability and whether he can continue to pitch at a high level for several more seasons. Given that Kershaw is in the twilight of his career, the Dodgers might opt to trade him to a team like the Mariners that is looking for a veteran presence in the rotation. This would also allow Kershaw to potentially win a championship with a team that may have a better shot at the postseason.
- Dustin May – Dustin May is a promising young talent with immense potential. His fastball is electric, and he has the makings of a future ace. However, May has struggled with injuries over the past few seasons, which has limited his ability to establish himself as a mainstay in the Dodgers’ rotation. If the Dodgers feel they can’t rely on May for the long term due to injury concerns, they may consider trading him while his value is still high.
- Tony Gonsolin – Tony Gonsolin has been an effective part of the Dodgers’ rotation, but he has never quite become the dominant pitcher the team had hoped for. His inconsistency and inability to go deep into games could make him a trade candidate. If the Dodgers are looking to unload a pitcher to make room for a new acquisition, Gonsolin may be the odd man out.
Any one of these pitchers could find themselves traded to the Mariners in exchange for a package of prospects or perhaps a younger, cost-controlled player who could help the Dodgers in the long run. The Mariners have been building an impressive roster, and adding a solid starter could be just what they need to take the next step toward postseason contention.
Why the Mariners?
The Seattle Mariners have emerged as a strong contender in the American League in recent years, with a young, talented roster that is built for sustained success. While the Mariners have made significant strides in terms of player development, they still need additional pitching depth to challenge the heavyweights in the AL.
The Mariners have already made moves in the past to bolster their pitching staff, but adding an established starter like a potential trade acquisition from the Dodgers would push them into serious playoff contention. The Mariners’ front office is known for their shrewd moves, and acquiring a pitcher with proven postseason experience would be a key factor in their pursuit of an AL West title.
From the Dodgers’ perspective, sending a starter to Seattle makes sense for several reasons. First, the Mariners have the financial flexibility to absorb a trade for a high-profile pitcher, even one with a sizable contract. Additionally, the Mariners have a strong farm system, which would allow the Dodgers to acquire top-tier prospects in return, helping them build for the future. The trade could be a win-win for both teams—Los Angeles gets the flexibility it needs to continue improving, while Seattle gets the pitching depth it craves.
The Trade’s Potential Impact
The impact of such a trade could be far-reaching for both teams. For the Dodgers, clearing out a rotation spot could allow their new free-agent acquisition to slot in smoothly and further strengthen their already formidable lineup. The Dodgers have consistently been one of the best teams in baseball, and their willingness to make tough decisions shows their commitment to staying competitive for years to come.
For the Mariners, adding a proven starting pitcher could elevate them from playoff hopefuls to legitimate postseason contenders. Whether they acquire a left-hander like Urías or a seasoned veteran like Kershaw, the Mariners would benefit from a boost to their rotation. A successful acquisition could push them closer to their goal of breaking their long playoff drought and competing for an AL Championship.
