MLB Rumors: Insider Links Dodgers To Top Free Agent

November 18, 2024

The Los Angeles Dodgers, fresh off a World Series victory, are reportedly making a strong push to sign top free-agent pitcher Corbin Burnes. 

Burnes, a four-time All-Star and 2021 Cy Young Award winner, is coming off an excellent season with the Baltimore Orioles, where he posted a 2.92 ERA across 194.1 innings. 

With his Southern California roots — hailing from Bakersfield, just 110 miles from Dodger Stadium — MLB.com's Mark Feinsand suggests the Dodgers could have “an edge” in the pursuit. 

Burnes’ desire to join a team with a sustainable competitive core aligns perfectly with Los Angeles’ status as perennial contenders, a factor the ace has emphasized: “Where does it look like teams are going to be competitive? Where are teams just looking to spend some money to make the fan base happy?”

Adding Burnes would fortify an already star-studded rotation that includes Shohei Ohtani, Tyler Glasnow, and Yoshinobu Yamamoto, though all three come with durability concerns. 

The Dodgers’ rotation depth is further challenged by the free agency of Walker Buehler and Jack Flaherty, making Burnes’ consistency and ability to deliver high-volume innings especially appealing. 

Since 2020, Burnes has compiled an impressive 2.88 ERA over 816.2 innings. 

As Jon Heyman of the New York Post put it, Burnes is “one of the most consistent, durable starters around,” and he’s projected to command a seven-year, $210 million deal.

While the Yankees and Mets are expected to compete for Burnes’ services, the Dodgers' mix of financial flexibility, championship pedigree, and proximity to Burnes’ hometown gives them a unique advantage. 

Photo Credit: Tommy Gilligan-Imagn Images


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