Dodgers Rumors: Adding Zach Britton punches LA’s World Series ticket
By Jason Reed
Zach Britton was easily the most dominant closer of 2016. The latest Dodgers rumors entail that he may be joining the most dominant closer of 2017.
Zach Britton set the bar pretty high for closers last season. The left-handed starter, turned closer, was a perfect 47 for 47 in save opportunities. Finishing fourth in Cy Young and 11th in MVP voting, the importance of Britton’s domination was clearly showcased. Now, as the Orioles continue to stumble to mediocrity, Britton has been tied in the latest Dodgers rumors.
It isn’t a surprise to see a dominant closer so wrapped up in trade rumors. Last year we saw both Aroldis Chapman and Andrew Miller dealt from the New York Yankees. Ironically, the two teams that received these dominant closers were the two teams playing in the fall classic.
Britton has battled a strained flexor tendon this season, causing him to miss a big chunk of time. However, the closer just recently returned to the bullpen on July 5 and is making the transition back into assuming his closer duties. In 14 innings pitched Britton has a 1.93 ERA, only giving up a run in two of his 13 appearances.
This is a great sign for Britton, who looks to bounce back from injury, and an even better sign for the teams pursuing his services. With the Orioles currently standing with a 42-49 record, it makes sense to deal Britton. The market for bullpen arms has substantially grown since the success of the Cubs and Indians last season, potentially giving the Orioles an overpriced return.
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Now, many Dodger fans may want to shy away from Britton due to his injury problems and the sheer price to get him. There is no doubt LA would have to give up one, probably two, of their top prospects to bring Britton into the fold. As daunting and as ridiculous as that sounds, it is the perfect move for the Dodgers.
Yes, the team already has the most dominant closer of 2017 in Kenley Jansen. Jansen has been nothing short of lights out and continues to thrive for the Dodgers every time he takes the mound.
However, bringing in Britton to serve as a setup man would be huge for the Dodgers. We saw the Indians blur the lines with Andrew Miller last season, the Dodgers could do the same. Miller had no true role as his primary role was to come in with the game on the line, whether it was in the sixth or ninth inning.
Bringing in someone as talented as Britton to perform these duties would be huge for the Dodgers. Fans see how fast rallies start in postseason baseball and to have an additional arm to douse the flames is huge. The Dodgers can’t have Clayton Kershaw closing out the game again like they did last postseason.
Overall, it is no surprise to me why Britton has been the latest target of the Dodgers rumors. The southpaw is a dominating menace on the mound, a dominating menace that would punch LA’s ticket to the World Series.