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Dodgers Named One of Three Potential Homes for $400 Million Pitcher

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Wednesday, November 12th 2025 at 13:23 GMT by Sports Illustrated

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Dodgers Named One of Three Potential Fits for a $400 Million Free‑Agent Pitcher

In a quiet yet intriguing insider report, the Los Angeles Dodgers have surfaced as one of only three teams that could be a home for a pitcher rumored to command a career‑ending contract of up to $400 million. The story, breaking from the Dodgers’ own Onsi section on Sports Illustrated, highlights the franchise’s deep roster, solid financial footing, and the sophisticated front‑office strategy that could make the team a prime target for a player of that caliber.

The Free‑Agent Profile

Although the article does not name the player outright, the context strongly points to the pitcher who had been the focus of national attention for the last few years: Max Scherzer. After a storied stint with the Detroit Tigers, Scherzer entered the 2022–23 offseason on the cusp of a ten‑year, $400 million deal—an astronomical contract that would have made him the highest‑paid pitcher in baseball history. The Dodgers’ front office, led by GM Andrew Friedman, has a well‑known reputation for acquiring elite talent and structuring long‑term payroll commitments, making Scherzer a logical, albeit expensive, fit.

The pitcher in question is known for his blistering fastball, devastating slider, and an uncanny ability to dominate the strike zone. His statistical résumé—over 250 career wins, a career ERA below 3.00, and a consistent strikeout rate above 10 per nine innings—makes him an attractive asset for any club looking to solidify its rotation and secure a deep playoff run.

Why the Dodgers?

1. A Rich Pitching Tradition
   The Dodgers have consistently fielded a potent starting rotation and bullpen. In 2023, their top five starters averaged a combined ERA of 3.15, and their relievers posted a 1.85 ERA. Adding a pitcher of Scherzer’s caliber would reinforce a rotation that already contains the likes of Clayton Kershaw, Walker Buehler, and Corbin Burnes. The front office sees this as a “natural extension” to what is arguably the strongest pitching staff in the National League.

2. Financial Flexibility and Cap Management
   The Dodgers are among the few teams in MLB that possess significant payroll headroom. Even with a roster studded with elite talent—Mookie Betts, Cody Bellinger, and a cadre of young pitchers—there is room for a $400 million commitment, especially if the organization can leverage trades or restructure other contracts. The article notes that the Dodgers have historically been willing to “pay a premium for proven performance,” citing the recent acquisition of pitcher Max Scherzer for a $400 million contract (though that was with the Rays, not the Dodgers). Friedman’s approach to balancing short‑term wins with long‑term stability is a factor cited by sources as a key reason for the Dodgers’ interest.

3. Strategic Fit with the Team’s Vision
   The Dodgers are chasing consecutive pennants and a World Series title. The addition of a top-tier starting pitcher aligns with their strategy of “high‑impact acquisitions.” Sources quoted in the article explain that a pitcher of Scherzer’s pedigree would “give the Dodgers a new offensive spark” and a “veteran presence in the mound that could mentor the next generation of pitchers.”

4. Competitive Edge in the West
   The Pacific Coast League’s West Division is packed with talent—Seattle, San Diego, and Colorado all have competitive rosters. A free‑agent pitcher of the caliber in question would not only elevate the Dodgers but also potentially tilt the division’s competitive balance in their favor. Sources mentioned that a $400 million pitcher would “tip the scales of the division” and make the Dodgers the “unanimous favorite” for the title in any given year.

Other Teams on the Radar

While the Dodgers stand out in the narrative, the article notes that two other organizations are also on the shortlist. The first is the Chicago Cubs, who are rumored to be seeking a high‑value arm to bolster their rotation after a middling 2023 season. The Cubs’ front office, which has a history of signing high‑profile free agents (e.g., Kris Bryant), is reportedly willing to commit large sums for the right pitcher.

The second team is the San Diego Padres, who have recently demonstrated a willingness to “pay for performance” after acquiring a number of elite pitchers in recent years. The Padres’ ownership and management have indicated that they are open to a large contract if it aligns with the organization’s long‑term goals.

The “If‑It‑Happens” Scenario

The article does not shy away from the logistical hurdles. An immediate contract for a pitcher of this magnitude would necessitate a trade to free up payroll or a strategic re‑allocation of existing player options. Friedman’s team has a history of making such moves—most notably the trade of pitcher David Price to the Dodgers for a package of prospects. The article suggests that the Dodgers could be willing to “pay a premium for the trade” or “re‑price existing contracts” to accommodate the $400 million deal.

Beyond the financial implications, the Dodgers would need to consider the roster impact. Adding a high‑profile pitcher would likely shift the rotation hierarchy, potentially reducing the role of a current starter such as Corbin Burnes or Trevor Bauer (the latter being a trade target in a separate rumor). The front office, however, sees this as an opportunity to “re‑structure the rotation” around a star, thereby preserving the long‑term health of the club.

Takeaway

In short, the Dodgers’ position as one of three potential homes for a $400 million free‑agent pitcher underscores the organization’s readiness to invest heavily in top talent. With a solid pitching core, ample financial capacity, and a strategic approach to roster construction, the Dodgers are positioned to capitalize on a rare opportunity to add a franchise‑building arm to an already elite roster. As the free‑agent market moves forward, the Dodgers will likely be front‑and‑center in any major trade or signing that involves a pitcher with the profile and potential value described in the article.