Report: Dodgers, Indians re-engaged in Kluber trade talks
One blockbuster trade might not be enough for the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Following Friday's deal that sent Yasiel Puig, Matt Kemp, and Alex Wood to the Cincinnati Reds, the Dodgers have re-engaged the Cleveland Indians about a trade for 32-year-old right-hander Corey Kluber, a source told Michael J. Duarte of NBC Los Angeles.
"I’d be blown away if (the) Dodgers don’t get Kluber," a rival executive told Duarte.
Los Angeles has been involved in discussions regarding a Kluber trade with the Indians for more than a month. Talks between the two sides reportedly intensified during the winter meetings but a deal was never completed.
Kluber, a two-time Cy Young winner, could provide the Dodgers with a formidable veteran option atop their rotation alongside southpaw Clayton Kershaw and promising youngster Walker Buehler.
Projected 2018 rotation
| PITCHER | IP | ERA | WHIP | SO | WAR |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clayton Kershaw | 161.1 | 2.73 | 1.04 | 155 | 3.5 |
| Walker Buehler | 137.1 | 2.62 | 0.96 | 151 | 3.3 |
| Hyun-Jin Ryu | 82.1 | 1.97 | 1.01 | 89 | 2.0 |
| Rich Hill | 132.2 | 3.66 | 1.12 | 150 | 1.9 |
| Kenta Maeda | 125.1 | 3.81 | 1.26 | 153 | 2.6 |
Since inking Carlos Carrasco to a contract extension at the beginning of December, the Indians have reportedly been motivated to trade one of Kluber or Trevor Bauer.
Puig, who was being discussed as part of a deal, is no longer an option, but the Indians apparently still have interest in 22-year-old Dodgers outfielder Alex Verdugo.
The Dodgers opened room under the luxury-tax threshold following Friday's trade. Kluber is owed $17 million in 2019 with team options for $17.5 and $18 million in 2020 and 2021, respectively.