Dodgers Linked As Trade Partner For Red Sox Outfielder In Potentially Shocking Move

Entering the offseason, the Dodgers have a clear need in their starting rotation, but other places across the roster do need to be filled. The team is coming off another poor showing in the playoffs, and they will want to make sure that it doesn’t happen again with a strong offseason.

They have some decisions to make on a few free agents, and it could see their depth from this season get depleted.

A shocking new rumor emerged this week, however, that would not only bring back an old friend but also fill an imminent void in the outfield. Nick Deeds of MLB Trade Rumors suggested the Dodgers and Red Sox could come together on a deal that brings Alex Verdugo back to LA.

He explains.

“As unusual as it would be for the Dodgers to trade for Verdugo just four seasons after including him in the package that brought Mookie Betts from Boston to LA, Verdugo would be an excellent fit for the Dodgers, who are set to lose lefty corner bats David Peralta and Jason Heyward to free agency this offseason. Though a healthy season from Gavin Lux would allow Betts to patrol right field on a regular basis again in 2024 after spending much of 2023 on the infield dirt, the club still figures to be in need of an outfield regular alongside Betts and James Outman. Additionally, Verdugo’s left-handed bat would complement the right-handed bat of Chris Taylor, who figures to play a utility role in both the infield and outfield next season.”

Per Nick Deeds of MLBTradeRumors

Getting Verdugo back would be a turn of events, but one that LA could very easily be interested in. He is entering the final year under team control and isn't expected to earn much more than $9 million in arbitration.

Boston isn’t likely to give him a contract extension, so trading him now makes all the sense in the world for them. Verdugo wouldn’t be asked to be one of the main players for this team, and he could play a role that is more comfortable for his skill set.

Should The Dodgers Really Re-Acquire Alex Verdugo?

It’s an intriguing move that the Dodgers should look into, especially considering what they could be losing in the offseason. Bringing Verdugo back would allow LA to spend their money on other free agents this winter, while also getting a quality bat in the lineup. Moreover, the Sox could explore adding Chris Sale to the deal to net a better return for their long rebuild.

Last season with Boston, Verdugo hit .264 with 13 home runs and 54 runs batted in. It was a down year compared to 2022 when he hit .280 with 11 home runs and 74 runs batted in.

The team already knows how he is as a player, and he could finally take over a spot in the outfield for the Dodgers. His left-handed bat could fit in well within the LA lineup, and it probably wouldn't cost a ton to require him.

This is certainly an interesting proposition here and one that could see LA linking back up with another former player. Plus, it would be cool to see Mookie Betts and Verdugo playing in the outfield together a few years after being traded for one another.