Cubs Trade Idea Lands Justin Steele Fill-in

Gonsolin is on a $5.4 million contract before gaining arbitration eligibility in 2026 and free agency in 2027. With the clock ticking on the 30-year-old, this could be the time for the Dodgers to ship their surplus of pitchers in exchange for youth.

He is not going to save the season or replicate Steele’s impact, but he can still serve as a legitimate middle-of-the-rotation innings eater. Plus, even with a healthy Steele, there are serious questions about that fifth starter.

When fully healthy, Los Angeles really does not have any spots for Gonsolin, despite his talents. Through 375 and 2/3 career innings, he has a 3.19 ERA, 4.00 FIP, and went a league-best 16-1 in 2022. Winning percentage diminishes in value every year for pitchers, but not just anyone can put up that type of season.

Cruz, a 19-year-old shortstop with exciting raw power, could stabilize a Dodgers pipeline at the six, which has forced Mookie Betts into an everyday role. The organization would benefit from adding natural sixes to their farm.

Neely is another intriguing prospect and someone who would reset the clock a bit for Los Angeles. He is 24 years old, but boasts a strong fastball and a “virtually unhittable” slider. Smart pitching staffs have gotten better and better at capitalizing on one or two dominant pitches, and Neely could be a fun project for the Dodgers.