Dodgers: Four players that may be traded this offseason
By Jason Reed
3. 1B Adrian Gonzalez
Adrian Gonazlez may be one of the most beloved members of the Los Angeles Dodgers and it would be a real shame to see him go. Acquiring Gonzalez, along with Josh Beckett, Nick Punto and Carl Crawford sparked this new era for the Dodgers that has resulted in five straight NL West titles. Although the other three guys did not work out long-term, Gonzalez became the Dodgers biggest producer.
From 2012 to 2014 Gonzalez tallied over 100 RBIs, the following two seasons he tallied 90. In 735 games played Gonzalez has slugged 101 home runs while donning Dodger blue. Were Gonzalez to stick around with the team next season, he should officially play more games as a Dodger than a Padre. Again, Adrian Gonzalez seemed born to be a Los Angeles Dodger.
However, there is a new sheriff in town and his name is Cody Bellinger. Bellinger ignited the baseball world this season with his ridiculous power and home runs spurts. Although he leveled out later in the year, his 39 home runs are an NL rookie record.
After battling injury Gonzalez officially ended his season before the playoffs started. To the shock of many, Gonzalez did not travel with the team during the postseason. Thus, trade talks emerged.
With only one year left under contract, the Dodgers could trade Gonzalez for a decent minor league return. Plus, this knocks out two birds with one stone as it opens up over $20 million in salary cap spending. The Athletics could be an option, amongst many, as Gonzalez is looking to produce.
Unless the Dodgers decide to move Cody Bellinger to the outfield it may be time to say goodbye to Gonzalez. As much as I do not want to see that happen, if he wants a starting role, he will have to find it elsewhere.