Dodgers Reportedly Competing With Multiple Teams for Strong Free Agent Reliever
After some early season struggles from their bullpen last season, the Dodgers saw a complete change come the season half. They turned a weakness into one of the best relief systems in the big leagues, and it helped spark LA's turnaround.
While the Dodgers aren't expected to heavily be active in the reliever market this winter, they are expressing interest in one of the better relief pitchers available. MLB insider Jon Morosi is reporting that LA is looking into former Tampa Bay Rays pitcher Robert Stephenson.
Stephenson was with the Pittsburgh Pirates to start the season last year but struggled during his time with the Bucs. He posted an ERA of 5.14 in 14 innings of work over 18 games.
The veteran was traded to Tampa Bay mid-season, and it saw his year completely turn around. With the Rays, he posted an ERA of 2.35 in 42 games played. He worked 38.1 innings, striking out 60 batters during his stint with them.
Being with a contending team seemed to do wonders for Stephenson, and the Dodgers likely see his potential value. He would be a nice addition to the LA bullpen and could give them another arm to use in the later innings.
You can never have enough bullpen arms, and the Dodgers surely want to bolster their reliever options with reliable pitchers. They saw a rotating staff this past season, so they want to avoid that happening again.
It remains to be seen if Stephenson will land in Los Angeles, and there are multiple teams vying for his services. But the Dodgers are doing their due diligence at least, and the offseason is just getting started.
