On paper, the Dodgers have too many good problems. Too many good outfielders, too many All-Star closers, and, for the first time in many years, a well-stocked farm system. So barring a rash of injuries, the Dodgers shouldn’t have the need to make any major trades this season.
That said, general manager Ned Colletti isn’t exactly a frugal businessman, especially with the Guggenheim Group’s deep wallets backing him. He’s been known to pull the trigger on huge mid-season moves, including ones that brought his current starting first baseman, shortstop, left fielder and fifth starter to Los Angeles.
With the team off to a bit of a disappointing start, none of the standard trade subjects have made enough of an impact to raise their stocks. And if the Dodgers do swap one of their high-priced outfielders, they’ll more than likely have to eat a large chunk of any contract.
But, if the Dodgers find themselves floundering in June and trailing in the division, Colletti might feel the need to make a trade and salvage their World Series-or-bust season. At that point, who will be the most attractive trade chips to other teams? Who might the Dodgers be willing to ship away for a younger, fresher bat or a group of minor league players?
Read on to find out who the Dodgers best trade bait is so far in 2014.
All statistics taken from Baseball-Reference.com.