Shohei Ohtani, while publicly supporting the Los Angeles Lakers during the NBA season, has the Los Angeles Dodgers’ front office working diligently to build a team that will help him defend their MLB title. Heading into the 2025 season, the Dodgers have strengthened their roster with four key acquisitions, all of which are expected to play significant roles in the team’s pursuit of another championship. The Dodgers’ strategy, unlike other teams such as the New York Mets, has been a more calculated approach, focusing on players who align well with manager Dave Roberts’ vision.
The Dodgers’ most recent acquisitions include Blake Snell, Michael Conforto, Blake Treinen, and Tommy Edman. Snell, a pitcher acquired from the San Francisco Giants, signed a five-year, $182 million deal. His addition is a major boost to the Dodgers’ pitching staff, with Snell coming off a strong season in which he recorded 164 strikeouts and a 1.00 WHIP in 104 innings. Conforto, a 31-year-old outfielder, joined the team after a productive 2024 season with the Giants. His power and consistency will help solidify the Dodgers’ outfield with 20 home runs and a .240 batting average last season
Blake Treinen, who re-signed with the Dodgers on a two-year, $22 million deal, will continue to be an asset in the bullpen. Treinen proved to be effective last season, appearing in 50 games and posting strong numbers with a 1.00 WHIP and 56 strikeouts. Finally, Tommy Edman signed a five-year extension worth $74 million. Edman’s versatility, speed, and defensive prowess will add depth to the Dodgers’ infield. He had a solid 2024 season, batting .239 with 33 hits and 11 stolen bases.
Despite these additions, the Dodgers are still addressing gaps in their roster, particularly with the need for another outfielder and more starting pitching. The team is actively exploring options to strengthen these areas. The Dodgers’ core remains intact, including key players like Ohtani, but the team continues to look for ways to enhance its chances of defending the championship.
In addition to these signings, Teoscar Hernández, a World Series champion, is still in the process of deciding his future. The Dodgers are reportedly in the running to retain him, but Hernández is also being pursued by the Boston Red Sox and the New York Yankees. The Red Sox are seen as the frontrunner, with Hernández reportedly favoring manager Alex Cora. As he evaluates his options, the MLB world waits to see whether he will stay with the Dodgers or pursue a new opportunity with a different team.
