Dodgers Rumors: Justin Verlander is a perfect fit in LA

The latest Dodgers rumors have spelled out the team’s need for one more great pitcher. That next arm up exists in Detroit, Michigan.

The Los Angeles Dodgers have a fantastic pitcher staff, and yet, the team seemingly is willing to target more arms at the trade deadline. Los Angeles has enjoyed a great stretch of baseball, posting a 39-16 record since the start of may; the best in baseball. However, despite this success, the latest Dodgers rumors still entail the acquisition of a new arm.

Los Angeles has a great pitching staff, that is without question. The boys in blue rank first in ERA, WHIP, and Pitching WAR (In Fangraphs‘ terms). With Clayton Kershaw leading the way, this rotation and bullpen have been nothing short of outstanding.

Kershaw has been typical Kershaw, Alex Wood has been a superstar, and Brandon McCarthy has far exceeded expectations. Rich Hill and Hyun-Jin Ryu still have some hiccups to address but have both been masterful at times as well. Kenta Maeda started the year off poorly but has posted a 2.70 ERA and a 4-1 record since the start of May.

It is the hiccups that are causing the Dodgers to seek another arm. Despite strong performances from several arms, the Dodgers can no longer pick into their minor league system for starting pitching. As the season extends these guys will only get more fatigued, bringing in further complications.

That is where Justin Verlander comes in. The former Cy Young and MVP winner would join another pitching MVP in Clayton Kershaw and could revitalize his career in Los Angeles.

Verlander does have a pretty hefty contract, but with only two years left remaining, it is nothing the Dodgers cannot handle. The team has avoiding splurging on any free agent talents, opening up room for a deal of this caliber.

Although Verlander does hold a no-trade clause, it is almost certain that he would waive it in this circumstance. Verlander would get to play for a title contending team once more, plus, he could move out west with his girlfriend Kate Upton.

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Verlander has struggled this season, that is without a doubt. His 4.47 ERA is his highest since 2008, and his walk rate is higher than it has ever been. Yet, Verlander remains an intriguing option as he would almost complete an entire 180 in LA.

First and foremost, he would be pitching in the very pitcher-friendly Dodger Stadium. Despite home runs being blasted at a historic rate, Dodger Stadium is still a very pitcher friendly ballpark. Add in the removal of the DL, and Verlander’s numbers would inevitably shrink.

Also, the Dodgers would get the most out of Verlander. Pitching behind Kershaw only makes everyone better, and pitching coach Rick Honeycutt is a master.

To get Verlander the Dodgers certainly would have to trade an arm in the farm. Perhaps a deal centered around number one prospect Yadier Alvarez could some to fruition, tossing in some lesser known minor league players.

Next: The Dodgers should target Miguel Montero

All in all, this move would help the Dodgers win the World Series. While hardcore fans of the boys in blue may not like the idea of a top prospect being traded, it may need to be done. Until then, the Dodgers rumors will just continue to circle.