The Dodgers are looking all across the board to bring in talent to the team right now, and while they are talking with some of the biggest free agents, they also have to add around the edges. They want to bring in another outfielder this offseason, and it seems that they may have their eyes on one via trade.
AM570 LA Sports Radio is reporting that the Dodgers are looking at a trade for Minnesota Twins outfielder Max Kepler. Kepler would bring some extra pop to the LA lineup, so the interest makes sense.
“Certainly the Dodgers are looking for another left-handed bat. Max Kepler of the Twins also falls into that category.”
Last year while with the Twins, Kepler hit .260 with 24 home runs and 66 runs batted in. He was one of the more productive members of the Minnesota lineup and helped them win the American League Central division.
Kepler did see his highest strikeout rate of his career but found ways to keep performing at a high level for the team. He would fit right in with the Dodgers, filling their need for a left-handed hitting outfielder.
With the team's re-signing of Jason Heyward, LA could split his time in right field with Kepler if they traded for him. Star utilityman Mookie Betts is expected to see more time in the infield this year, so that could see LA be more inclined to make a move like this.
While Kepler has primarily played right field in his career, the Dodgers could look to test him in left as well. They value versatility, and Kepler could provide that for them.
This is just one of many options that the Dodgers have, but their interest seems genuine. Nothing of substance will likely happen until we have more clarity on the big free agents, but hopefully, that all clears itself up soon.
More must-reads: