The Dodgers have consistently been one of the top teams in Major League Baseball (MLB) for several years now, and this season is no different. From strong performances by their star MLB players to smart decisions made by the front office, several factors contribute to the team’s success.
In this post, we will take a closer look at some of the key things the Dodgers are doing right this season and how they are positioning themselves for a deep run in the playoffs. So sit back, relax, and let’s dive into what’s been working for the Dodgers in 2022 as we head into 2023.
1. Star pitchers
The LA Dodgers have secured Clayton Kershaw for next season but are still looking to add at least one more quality starter to their rotation. Julio Urias, Dustin May, and Tony Gonsolin currently round out the rotation, but May and Gonsolin have yet to prove they can consistently perform well throughout a whole season.
The Dodgers are also hoping for improvements from Ryan Pepiot, Michael Grove, Bobby Miller, and Gavin Stone, but they are currently viewed as depth options. The team is interested in signing Justin Verlander, but they will face competition from the Mets, Yankees, and Astros, and the signing would also take up a significant portion of their payroll.
2. Center field changes
The Dodgers have explored the possibility of signing Kevin Kiermaier, but he ultimately chose to join the Toronto Blue Jays. The team is now considering options in the trade market or may consider acquiring a corner outfielder and using Mookie Betts in center field. Currently, their options in center field are Chris Taylor and Trayce Thompson, who are not as strong defensively as Bellinger.
3. Outfielder updates
The LA Dodgers have decided not to renew their contract with Cody Bellinger, who was the National League MVP in 2019. The team had tried to negotiate a deal to bring Bellinger back at a lower price, but this was not successful.
They also attempted to trade him, but no other team was willing to acquire him for the asking price. Bellinger’s departure opens up a spot in the outfield, and the Dodgers may consider signing Kevin Kiermaier or Aaron Judge as replacements. However, Judge appears to be a target for the Giants and Yankees. Chris Taylor and Trayce Thompson are also capable of playing center field.
4. Who will play shortstop?
The LA Dodgers have been in talks with Trea Turner, but it is becoming increasingly likely (due to conversations during the 2022-23 off-season) that he will not be playing for the team in 2023.
If this is the case, the Dodgers may consider keeping Gavin Lux as their in-house option or signing Xander Bogaerts, who may be cheaper than Turner. Alternatively, the team may not sign any of the top four free-agent shortstops. There has been interest in acquiring Willy Adames from the Milwaukee Brewers through a trade, but it is uncertain if the Brewers are willing to part with their franchise shortstop.
5. Mookie Betts leads his teammates on the 2022 All-MLB team
The All-MLB Team was announced at the Winter Meetings, recognizing the best players across the league. The selections were based on 50% expert judgment and 50% fan voting and only considered regular-season performance.
Mookie Betts and Trea Turner were named to the All-MLB First Team as the best shortstop and outfielder, respectively. Will Smith, Freddie Freeman, and Julio Urias were named to the All-MLB Second Team.
Smith, Freeman, and Urias had impressive seasons for the LA Dodgers but were not chosen for the First Team. Urias led the National League in ERA and finished third in NL Cy Young Award voting.
In conclusion, the LA Dodgers have had a strong season so far, largely thanks to the impressive performances of their talented players. From their strong line-up to deep pitching staff, the Dodgers have all the pieces in place to make a deep run in the playoffs.
While there is still a long way to go in the season, the Dodgers have proven that they are a force to be reckoned with and will be a tough team to beat. Whether you’re a fan of the Dodgers or just a casual baseball spectator, it’s worth keeping an eye on this team as they continue their quest for a World Series title.
