As we enter the 2024 MLB offseason, teams across the league are gearing up for an exciting period of trades, signings, and roster adjustments. The **Los Angeles Dodgers**, a perennial powerhouse in the National League, are reportedly eyeing a bold move that could reshape their pitching staff: trading for a $75 million ace from one of their National League rivals. While names are still being speculated, this type of deal would signify the Dodgers’ continued commitment to championship contention, especially after their heartbreaking exit from the 2023 postseason.
In this blog post, we’ll explore why the Dodgers might be pursuing a high-priced starting pitcher, who the potential trade targets could be, and what such a move might mean for the team as they look to secure another World Series title.
### Why the Dodgers Would Pursue a $75 Million Ace
The Dodgers have been a model of sustained success in the 21st century, driven largely by their deep pockets and an elite roster built from the ground up. While their offense has been explosive, with MVP-caliber players like **Mookie Betts** and **Freddie Freeman**, and their bullpen has often been a strength, their starting pitching has been a primary focus in recent years — especially after Clayton Kershaw’s age started to catch up to him and the team’s rotation faced several injury setbacks in 2023.
In 2023, the Dodgers found themselves dealing with a number of pitching uncertainties. While **Julio Urías** and **Dustin May** showed flashes of brilliance, both battled injuries. Additionally, Kershaw, though still effective in the regular season, is entering the twilight of his career and might not be able to carry the burden for much longer. The acquisition of a proven ace would not only stabilize the rotation but also add a legitimate No. 1 starter who can compete in the postseason — a crucial element given the Dodgers’ perennial championship aspirations.
The $75 million price tag is a significant investment, but the Dodgers’ financial flexibility allows them to make such a move. With the ability to absorb hefty contracts, Los Angeles has the luxury of pursuing high-end talent, especially if they can leverage their deep farm system or expendable major league assets. Such a trade would signal the team’s intention to stay competitive in a tough National League West division and bolster their postseason chances.
### Who Could the $75 Million Ace Be?
The most intriguing aspect of this rumor is the identification of a $75 million ace from an NL competitor. While names are still circulating, several prominent pitchers fit this mold, each of whom could provide an immediate boost to the Dodgers’ rotation. Let’s explore some potential candidates who might be on the trade block, and why they could be an attractive acquisition for Los Angeles.
#### 1. **Corbin Burnes (Milwaukee Brewers)**
Corbin Burnes, the reigning 2021 NL Cy Young Award winner, has been one of the most dominant pitchers in the National League for the past few seasons. As the ace of the **Milwaukee Brewers**, Burnes has consistently posted excellent strikeout numbers and kept his ERA in the low-3.00s, making him one of the premier starting pitchers in baseball.
However, Burnes has also been the subject of trade rumors for much of the past year, as the Brewers’ tight financial situation and Burnes’ rising arbitration salary have led to speculation that Milwaukee could look to deal their ace in order to maximize their return before he becomes a free agent after the 2024 season. Given Burnes’ performance in the postseason, his ability to dominate hitters, and his relative youth (he’s just 29 years old), he could fit in perfectly with the Dodgers’ championship window.
The Dodgers have the resources to make a deal with the Brewers, especially if they’re willing to part with some top prospects or MLB-ready talent. Burnes’ potential fit as a No. 1 starter in Los Angeles makes him a prime candidate for this rumored trade.
#### 2. **Zack Wheeler (Philadelphia Phillies)**
Another ace who could pique the Dodgers’ interest is **Zack Wheeler** of the **Philadelphia Phillies**. The 33-year-old Wheeler has been a stalwart in the Phillies’ rotation since joining the team in 2020, with a 3.28 ERA over 138 starts. Wheeler’s ability to eat innings and perform at a high level in the postseason — especially in the 2023 NLCS — has only raised his profile as one of the top pitchers in the National League.
The Phillies, coming off a World Series appearance in 2022, are currently in a position where they might be looking to build around their younger stars, like **Bryce Harper** and **Trea Turner**. Wheeler’s age and contract situation — he’s set to make around $75 million over the next three years — make him a potential trade candidate if the Phillies are open to moving him for future assets.
For the Dodgers, acquiring Wheeler would be a big win. His durability, big-game experience, and high strikeout rate would immediately improve their rotation. A pairing of Wheeler with Kershaw and **Tony Gonsolin** could give the Dodgers one of the most formidable playoff rotations in the league.
#### 3. **Max Fried (Atlanta Braves)**
While the **Atlanta Braves** may not be eager to deal their ace, **Max Fried**, his name has come up in trade rumors as the Braves seek to balance their roster and manage payroll. Fried, who has been one of the most consistent pitchers in the league over the past few seasons, has a proven track record in both the regular season and postseason, playing a key role in the Braves’ World Series win in 2021.
Fried is a bit of a wildcard in this conversation due to the Braves’ strong organizational depth and their willingness to retain their core players. However, if Atlanta were to entertain offers for Fried, the Dodgers would be a logical suitor. His left-handedness, ability to generate weak contact, and stellar control make him a highly coveted asset for any team looking to improve their pitching staff.
Given that Fried is only under contract through 2024, the Dodgers could potentially acquire him for a short-term boost to their rotation, with the added bonus of the possibility of extending him long-term. His $75 million price tag fits the rumored price point, and Fried’s youth (he’s just 30 years old) would make him an excellent investment for the future as well.
#### 4. **Trevor Bauer (Free Agent)**
Although Trevor Bauer is no longer under contract with the **Los Angeles Dodgers**, his name continues to circulate in MLB discussions. While Bauer is no longer on the Dodgers’ roster, it’s worth noting that the controversial pitcher could be a wildcard for the Dodgers’ rotation if he were to sign a contract elsewhere, particularly if they believe his services could help them return to the World Series.
Bauer has shown in the past that he has the ability to dominate at the major league level, but his off-field issues and suspension for violating MLB’s domestic violence policy have complicated his career. If Bauer were to return to form, he could provide the Dodgers with a much-needed rotation piece.
### Why Would the Dodgers Make This Move?
The Dodgers are consistently among the most active teams in MLB when it comes to acquiring elite talent. Whether through free agency, trades, or developing players from within their farm system, Los Angeles has built a reputation as a team that is not afraid to make bold moves in order to maintain their place atop the league.
Acquiring a $75 million ace would not only improve the Dodgers’ rotation but also give them another reliable arm for a deep postseason run. While they have a stacked offense, pitching depth is often the key to winning a World Series, and the Dodgers are well aware of this reality. Adding a proven ace would give them the advantage they need over other National League contenders.
### Conclusion
The Los Angeles Dodgers’ reported interest in acquiring a $75 million ace from a National League competitor underscores their commitment to building a championship-caliber team for 2024. Whether it’s **Corbin Burnes**, **Zack Wheeler**, or **Max Fried**, all of these pitchers would provide a significant boost to the Dodgers’ rotation. As the offseason progresses, it will be fascinating to see how these trade talks evolve and whether the Dodgers are able to secure the ace they need to compete for another World Series title.
One thing is for certain: if the Dodgers make this move, they’ll only strengthen their already impressive roster and solidify their position as one of the most feared teams in Major League Baseball.