SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA – OCTOBER 15: Mookie Betts #50 of the Los Angeles Dodgers reacts after striking out during the first inning against the San Diego Padres in game four of the National League Division Series at PETCO Park on October 15, 2022 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
How the Los Angeles Dodgers can correct some of the offseason mistakes they have made so far.
The Los Angeles Dodgers are a team typically in the mix for any of the big free agents or trade targets. This offseason has been a little different for them. They’ve sat quietly and watched stars leave. Others passed by and landed with their rivals.
The Dodgers remain one of the best teams in baseball regardless of some questionable moves and inaction this winter. Regardless of the high hopes of fans, there are four mistakes that stand out from the offseason.
How can the Dodgers fix them? Before Opening Day, during the season, and even next winter, Los Angeles can make up for each.
1) Dodgers offseason mistake: Not going after one of the big shortstops
Letting Trea Turner leave is one thing. Not signing another one of the free agent shortstops is another. Was it necessary for the Dodgers to spend big money on a shortstop? Faith in Gavin Lux to be a cheaper and equally productive shortstop had them staying clear of re-signing Turner or signing Xander Bogaerts, Dansby Swanson, and even Carlos Correa.
The Dodgers were rumored to have some interest in a trade with the Milwaukee Brewers for Willy Adames. Those rumors seem to have died down. It looks like the Dodgers are going to come back with a lot of familiar faces in 2023.
Lux could turn out to be the right choice for shortstop, however, the Dodgers need to be attentive to the trade market for middle infielders. Chris Taylor did not have a good season in 2022. Third baseman Max Muncy didn’t even hit above the Mendoza Line.
Because of their versatility, these three players may begin the year at one position and find themselves ending elsewhere. They shouldn’t be above benching Muncy or Taylor this year if they fail to hit consistently.
The lineup has some big question marks in it. They need to stay on their toes to find any possible additions in the trade market to improve their infield.