For the first time since 2023, the Dodgers will walk into the winter with something to prove, rather than walking in on top of the baseball world. Now, don’t expect anything like what Los Angeles did that winter. However, there is one specific area that does stand out heading into the offseason and could use some help.
Biggest needs for Dodgers
Bullpen reinforcements were a priority for the Dodgers in each of the last two offseasons (amongst other needs). Two winters ago, Los Angeles landed former Marlins closer Tanner Scott. This past offseason, it was Edwin Diaz who joined the club. Yet again, though, the bullpen is an area to watch for Los Angeles.
Los Angeles’ bullpen was middle of the pack in strikeouts; 12th with 617, to be exact. Plus, the eighth-best relief ERA (3.74) in the league. The likes of Edgardo Henriquez and Alex Vesia, aside from the resurgence of Tanner Scott, were key reasons why.
However, Vesia, one of the top left-handed pitchers in the league over the past few seasons, is on the market. As is once-closer Evan Phillips. But Vesia is arguably the second-best left-handed reliever available this winter, thanks to an uncomfortable look for hitters, coupled with good stuff.
Vesia walked into free agency having one of the best seasons among all relievers in 2026. His .233 opponents’ wOBA was in the top 11 of Major League Baseball relievers this past year (min. 35 appearances).
As of right now, the Dodgers do have some left-handed depth with Scott, Jack Dreyer, plus Justin Wrobleski, depending on what role he’ll ultimately be used in for 2027. Nonetheless, losing Vesia would be rather significant.
Moving on to the rest of the Dodgers’ roster, it will be interesting to see how the Dodgers replace Tarik Skubal (unless he re-signs) internally. Blake Snell, Tyler Glasnow, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Emmet Sheehan, Roki Sasaki, and, one would assume, a healthier Shohei Ohtani would be on the docket as rotation stalwarts/options.
That would be a formidable group, provided all can stay healthy.
Los Angeles also has a full lineup that should look very familiar in 2027. Aside from the now-retired Miguel Rojas and utilityman Enrique Hernandez, the Dodgers’ lineup should look exactly the same compared to 2026.
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