| Joe Gutierrez. 12th November, 2005 - 1:13 pm
 The Los Angeles Dodgers off season began about a month ago, after former manager Jim Tracy bolted to the Pittsburgh Pirates. And just recently, Los Angeles informed Paul DePodesta that his services were no longer needed as the team’s GM. The Dodgers are now at a crossroads within the organization. They currently have no general manager as well as a team manager. Owner Frank McCourt has stated that he will hold off the search for a manager until a GM is found.
Major League Baseball is holding the general managers meetings in California which should be ending soon. Usually at these meetings nothing really important happens in terms of trading players amongst teams. This does not mean the Dodgers will be exploring trades to upgrade the team. This off season they will be looking to add some obvious needs at offense. Now that DePodesta is gone, the question will be what to do with 1B Hee-Seop Choi. DePodesta was a big favorite of Choi when he acquired him and Brad Penny in the controversial trade that sent fan favorite Paul Lo Duca to Florida. Another need in the offense will be at third base. A possible candidate could be Nomar Garciaparra. Garciaparra played the position towards the end of last season with the Chicago Cubs. The former Bo Sox shortstop also grew up in Southern California which could make his decision a little easier.
The recent re-signing of OF Jose Cruz Jr. could mean the departure of Milton Bradley from Los Angeles. Bradley has had his problems in the past but his latest feud with 2B Jeff Kent near the end of last season, would seemingly be his last as a Dodger. The Dodgers could elect to trade him, but it will no doubt be difficult. Bradley’s poor attitude will be one characteristic of him that will scare away teams’ interest in him.
These next few months will be crucial in what the Dodgers decide to do in regards to upgrading the team. Other than some bats needed, the most important element in order to win is pitching. Another starting pitcher and a reliever will be needed. Talks with Jeff Weaver are basically on life support. It looks as though the team will let him walk, unless the new general manager finds a way to keep him. Either way the Dodgers have their work cut out for them, not only on the field, but most importantly off it. |
