Dodgers Rumors: Three Last Minute Moves to Make
By Jason Reed
Sign Matt Harrison
Matt Harrison is a former Texas Ranger and Philadelphia Phillies that had been cut by said Phillies in November of last year. Harrison was once an all-star with the Rangers back in 2012 and finished eighth in Cy Young voting. However, despite being included in the deal that sent Cole Hamels to Texas, Harrison has not done much since 2012.
Harrison has been battling a multitude of injuries since his breakout season in 2012. Since then, Harrison has pitched in nine games, missing the entirety of 2016 with the Phillies. Due to this, Harrison got cut from his contract, and now with a week before the season finds himself unemployed.
Now, you may be questioning why the Dodgers should bring in a banged up starting pitcher that hasn’t pitched much since 2012. The reason why is simple, the reward far outweighs the risk in this situation.
The Dodgers could bring in Harrison on a minor league contract for virtually nothing, then have him work out of the bullpen in AAA. By reducing his workload, perhaps the Dodgers could get Harrison in a groove that sees him return to form.
He may not pitch like all-star Matt Harrison, but could be a very decent surprise much like Joe Blanton was last season. Then, if he thrives in the minors the big league club could utilize his left-handed arm in the bullpen.
The Dodgers would practically be taking a very small risk for a guy that could be extremely helpful for their big league bullpen. With far more right-handers than left, bringing in Harrison on a minuscule deal couldn’t hurt LA.