Could Dodgers look to pair of familiar faces to address needs?

The defending champion Los Angeles Dodgers could be reuniting with two of their former stars this offseason. 

The Dodgers have been rumored to be a potential landing spot for free agent outfielder Cody Bellinger, who declined his $25 million player option for 2026 with the New York Yankees. Bellinger, who is coming off a strong season with the Yankees in which he hit .272 with 29 home runs and 98 RBI, is entering his age-30 season and would provide a quality glove in the outfield, an area where the Dodgers are looking to improve. 

Another former Dodger that could be an option to return, although a long shot, is Texas Rangers infielder Corey Seager. The Rangers have been reported to be listening to trade offers for the two-time World Series MVP.

With the trade of Marcus Semien to the New York Mets on Sunday and the non-tendering of star outfielder Adolis Garcia on Friday, the Rangers could be pivoting towards more of a rebuild. Could a possible trade of Seager be next? Maybe, if the Rangers decide to go younger and shed some payroll. 

The Dodgers, meanwhile, are looking to solidify the shortstop position. Mookie Betts struggled offensively last season and it might be the burden of playing shortstop every day that is affecting his offense. Seager would be another good fit in a position of need for the Dodgers.

However interesting the moves may sound, they won’t come without obstacles. Bellinger is projected to demand a six-year deal worth up to $165 million, while a trade for Seager would most likely take a serious haul in prospects for the Rangers to consider, not to mention taking on a big portion of what remains of Corey Seager’s contract. 

The Dodgers could also decide to stay put and not do anything at all. Nevertheless, it opens up another source of options for the defending champs which could make for an interesting offseason.