The Los Angeles Dodgers have made significant moves to strengthen their roster this offseason, with a focus on securing key players who can make a meaningful impact in the 2025 season. General Manager Brandon Gomes, speaking during the meetings in San Antonio, Texas, on November 6, 2024, emphasized that the team’s front office is concentrating on adding “needle-movers” to the roster. This approach is centered around making strategic additions that will not only enhance the team’s depth but also contribute to its pursuit of a second consecutive World Series title.
The offseason for the Dodgers began with a major acquisition when they signed Blake Snell, the 2023 National League Cy Young Award winner, to a five-year contract worth $182 million. This deal marked a clear statement that the organization was serious about upgrading its pitching staff. Snell, known for his dominant performances on the mound, provides the Dodgers with a proven ace who can anchor their rotation and contribute significantly during high-pressure moments.
In addition to Snell, the Dodgers have made further additions to their roster. Michael Conforto, a former All-Star outfielder, was signed to a one-year, $17 million deal. Conforto adds a veteran presence to the outfield and brings a potent bat to a team already stacked with offensive firepower. Furthermore, the Dodgers re-signed Blake Treinen, a key relief pitcher, to a two-year, $22 million contract. Treinen’s return bolsters the bullpen and provides the team with a reliable arm in high-leverage situations.
Looking ahead, the Dodgers are actively pursuing additional reinforcements. They remain in talks with Teoscar Hernández, the outfielder coming off a strong season, with the possibility of a multi-year contract in the works. Hernández would further deepen the Dodgers’ already impressive outfield, giving the team another offensive weapon. The team is also closely monitoring the market for Japanese pitching sensation Roki Sasaki, who has been drawing attention as one of the top available players in free agency. If the Dodgers manage to sign Sasaki, it would be a significant boost to their pitching staff.
Despite the offseason flurry of activity, the Dodgers are not done yet. Gomes highlighted that while the team has laid a strong foundation with their recent signings, there is still time to explore further moves leading up to Spring Training. “We’ve made some moves that have set a real strong foundation for a successful team,” Gomes said. “Now we’ll take the next couple weeks leading up to spring training to explore what’s out there.” The general manager stressed that the Dodgers are focused on identifying “needle-movers” — players who can make a significant difference for the team. These moves could range from adding high-impact players to securing additional depth, both of which are essential for the Dodgers to maintain their competitive edge.
Although the core of the Dodgers’ roster is already in place, there are still some key areas that may need attention before the start of the 2025 season. One such area is the starting rotation, where the Dodgers may look to add another high-caliber pitcher. Rumors suggest that the team is considering re-signing future Hall of Famer Clayton Kershaw, who remains one of the best left-handed pitchers in baseball despite advancing age. Kershaw’s return would provide the Dodgers with even more stability at the top of their rotation, as he has been an integral part of the team for over a decade.
In the bullpen, the Dodgers are also exploring the possibility of adding another high-leverage relief pitcher. Tanner Scott, a hard-throwing lefty with closing experience, has been mentioned as a potential target. The addition of a pitcher like Scott would provide additional depth to a bullpen that already includes some strong arms, making it even more formidable during the postseason.
Another potential move for the Dodgers could be the re-signing of utility player Kiké Hernández. Hernández, a fan favorite and versatile defender, could provide valuable depth across multiple positions. His ability to play both the infield and outfield, along with his clutch hitting in key moments, makes him a valuable asset for the Dodgers as they look to repeat as World Series champions.
In addition to the major league acquisitions, the Dodgers have also made several moves in the minor league system, adding players on minor league contracts. Among these are Aaron Bracho, David Bote, Joe Jacques, Justin Jarvis, Sam Carlson, and Matt Sauer. These signings reflect the team’s commitment to building depth at all levels, ensuring that they have a pool of talent ready to contribute when needed. Minor league contracts are often used to bring in players who could develop into key contributors or serve as valuable depth options for the major league roster.
Overall, the Dodgers’ offseason strategy appears focused on striking the right balance between immediate upgrades and long-term potential. With stars like Shohei Ohtani, Mookie Betts, and Freddie Freeman already leading the charge, the front office is looking to build a roster that can contend not only in 2025 but for years to come. As Gomes stated, the front office is committed to making the moves that will push the team closer to its goal of repeating as World Series champions, and they are prepared to continue exploring opportunities to make the necessary additions. The next few weeks leading up to Spring Training will be crucial as the Dodgers finalize their roster and prepare for another championship run.
