The Dodgers: Rich, Deep, and Ready to Dominate
"There are rich teams, and there are poor teams. Then there’s 50 feet of crap, and then there’s us." Brad Pitt’s immortal line in "Moneyball" has never been more poignant than it is with the Los Angeles Dodgers. After clinching the 2024 World Series, the Dodgers embarked on one of the most aggressive MLB offseasons, signing left-hander Blake Snell to a five-year, $182 million deal and adding Japanese right-hander Roki Sasaki, among a slew of other moves. Their payroll for the upcoming season is projected to be around $321 million, a staggering figure that underscores their unwavering commitment to dominance.
A Rotational Powerhouse
The Dodgers’ pitching depth is a testament to their financial prowess and strategic acumen. Tyler Glasnow, though often sidelined by injuries, is a force to be reckoned with when healthy. Glasnow, a former All-Star, can push his four-seamer into the high 90s and complements it with a devastating slider and curveball. Despite his 2024 season being cut short after 22 starts due to an elbow injury, Glasnow boasts impressive stats, including a 3.49 ERA, 2.90 FIP, and a 0.95 WHIP, alongside 168 strikeouts in 134 innings.
Gonsolin’s Comeback Potential
Tony Gonsolin, a pitcher who once shone brightly in 2022, has been sidelined by forearm injuries since 2023. Nevertheless, Gonsolin’s career has seen him post a combined 3.19 ERA and 1.05 WHIP in 79 appearances, 71 of which were starts. At just 30 years old, Gonsolin relies on his four-seamer and split-fingered fastball, making him a valuable asset if he can stay healthy. His potential return could significantly bolster the Dodgers’ starting rotation.
Kershaw’s Last Stand
Clayton Kershaw, the three-time National League Cy Young Award winner and five-time ERA leader, may be on the twilight of his career, but his presence is still felt. Limited to just seven starts in 2024 due to elbow and toe injuries, Kershaw has not made 30 starts in a regular season since 2015. However, the soon-to-be 37-year-old southpaw, with a career 2.50 regular-season ERA, can still be an effective finesse pitcher, inducing weak contact with his slider. His experience and composure make him an invaluable mentor to the younger pitchers on the team.
Emerging Talent and Depth
Rookie sensations like Landon Knack and Bobby Miller are poised to make their mark. Knack, who appeared in 15 games (12 starts) last season, displayed a promising 3.65 ERA and 69 strikeouts in 69 innings. His consistent four-pitch arsenal, including a four-seamer, slider, curveball, and changeup, makes him a versatile option for the Dodgers. Similarly, Dustin May, who has been limited to 46 appearances (34 starts) since 2019 due to elbow issues, has shown flashes of brilliance with a 3.10 ERA and 1.05 WHIP, hitting the high 90s on the radar and showcasing a powerful sinker.
International Stars and Future Icons
The Dodgers’ pitching depth is further enriched by international talent like Shohei Ohtani and Roki Sasaki. Ohtani, a three-time MLB MVP, hasn’t pitched since 2023 due to a torn UCL, but his potential return is eagerly anticipated. With a career 3.01 ERA, 1.08 WHIP, and 608 strikeouts in 481 2/3 innings, Ohtani is an electric right-hander who can dominate with his sweeper and cutter. Roki Sasaki, a 23-year-old sensation, is arguably the most compelling arm on the Dodgers’ pitching staff. Sasaki posted a 2.02 ERA, 0.88 WHIP, and 524 strikeouts in 414 2/3 innings in the Japan Pacific League and Japan Eastern League, demonstrating his potential to be a future ace.
A Bright Future Awaits
The Dodgers’ pitching staff is a microcosm of their overall organizational strength. From seasoned veterans like Clayton Kershaw to emerging talents like Landon Knack and international stars like Roki Sasaki, the Dodgers have the depth and versatility to contend for multiple championships. With a payroll that reflects their ambition and a roster that embodies their talent, the Dodgers are not just a rich team; they are a powerhouse poised to dominate the MLB for years to come.
