The Los Angeles Dodgers may have experienced the most costly offseason in MLB history, however, they are still seeking to improve a roster with World Series goals.
The team has been connected to potential trades for even more starting pitching depth, a shortstop to support Mookie Betts with his transition to the position and, now, one of the most successful closers in MLB.
Predicting the “10 best MLB trade chips” for the 2024 season, Zachary Rymer of Bleacher Report suggested the Dodgers as a possible fit for the Milwaukee Brewers’ Devin Williams, a two-time All-Star and two-time Reliever of the Year who is presently out of action due to a back injury.
“But if we assume that the Brewers are a long shot for the postseason — and they are, with only 37.3 percent playoff odds — it’s much easier to envision a Williams trade,” Rymer wrote. “Unless his recovery faces any setbacks, it’s very possible that he’ll perform just as well as he did in 2023. Meaning, showing the form of a two-time All-Star and Rookie of the Year, boasting a 1.89 ERA and 14.2 strikeouts per nine innings.”
The Los Angeles Dodgers Might Consider a Trade for Devin Williams As Low Risk, High Reward
If Williams makes a return to the mound similar to his 2023 performance, he would likely become the Dodgers’ top closer — a vital shutdown choice for a team with expectations of a deep playoff run. Nonetheless, Williams’ injury has raised uncertainties about what was previously one of the most dependable arms in the big leagues.
“It will take some time before he is back in good health, as it is expected that the stress fractures in his back will prevent him from pitching until June,” Rymer added.
If healthy, Williams would be a steal for any team and would likely be viewed as a low-risk addition for the Dodgers, depending on what they would have to give up in return. Williams accepted a one-year, $7.25 million deal with the Brewers to avoid arbitration for 2024, which includes a $10.5 million club option for 2025 or $250,000 buyout.
This means that the Dodgers could retain him for 2025 at an affordable price (for comparison, three-time Reliever of the Year Josh Hader signed a five-year, $95 million contract to become the Houston Astros closer this offseason). Should Williams not find a role on the team after his return from injury, it would be relatively inexpensive to buy out the remaining year on his contract.
The Milwaukee Brewers Might Be Open to Trading Devin Williams to the Los Angeles Dodgers
After choosing to trade former Cy Young Award winner Corbin Burnes to the Baltimore Orioles, the Brewers could potentially be sellers at this season’s trade deadline.
“It is uncertain whether the trade of Burnes will instigate other moves for the Brewers, possibly propelling them into a more constructive phase in Pat Murphy’s first year as Craig Counsell’s replacement as manager,” Ken Rosenthal reported for The Athletic. “The team has also been contemplating the idea of trading closer Devin Williams, who was recognized as the top reliever in the NL last season.”
With one of the top farm systems in Major League Baseball, the Dodgers have many young players to potentially trade for Williams.
