In what’s already been an incredible offseason for the LA Dodgers, things just got even better with a trade for Craig Kimbrel.
The Los Angeles Dodgers will enter Opening Day next week as the favorites to win the World Series, but that doesn’t mean the team isn’t done making moves to improve the roster. On Friday, the NL West powerhouse strengthened its bullpen in a massive way.
According to insider Ken Rosenthal, LA have traded A.J. Pollock to the Chicago White Sox in exchange for All-Star closer Craig Kimbrel. Dodgers fans are loving this deal by the organization.
Craig Kimbrel Dodgers trade details
Just like that, LA have their closer locked in for the 2022 campaign. Kimbrel has been an absolute force on the bump ever since he made his debut in the bigs back in 2010. Since then, the righty has suited up for the Braves, Cubs, Red Sox, Padres and White Sox. Now, he’ll be ready to record memorable performances for the Dodgers.
Earlier this offseason, the Dodgers made plenty of headlines after they signed Freddie Freeman to his monster contract. Freeman was hoping to return to the Braves, but after Atlanta traded for Matt Olson, the writing was on the wall for the first baseman.
Freeman is jacked up to join an already loaded lineup for the Dodgers. With Kimbrel with the team as well, it adds to what’s been an unreal month for the club. Kimbrel is an eight-time All-Star, dominating on the bump late in games.
Kimbrel has 372 saves in his career and he’s sporting an impressive 2.18 ERA. He’s money with the ball in his right hand and he’ll look to keep that going with LA starting from Game 1.
Craig Kimbrel contract
Kimbrel is on an expiring contract. He’s set to make $16 million this season.
Craig Kimbrel stats
Kimbrel had a 5.09 ERA with the White Sox, which was a far cry from his 0.49 ERA with the Cubs earlier that same season.