Dodgers Team News

Dodgers News: Stan Kasten Talks Dodgers 2014 Winter Approach

Stan KastenWith a record-setting payroll of $230 million last season, the Los Angeles Dodgers have been connected with most high profile free agents already this winter. While ownership maintains they aren’t interested in Yankees free agent second baseman Robinson Cano, they still can’t be counted out for his services.

Japanese pitching sensation Masahiro Tanaka looms as MLB and Nippon Professional Baseball are hoping to reach agreement on a posting system. If posted, Tanaka will likely command more than $120 million between posting fee and contract. Talking to Lyle Spencer of MLB.com, Kasten discussed what types of moves to expect this off-season:



I think, for us, it wouldn’t surprise me if we went [through] the winter without a huge move — not that it couldn’t happen, We are looking more at deepening the organization, to fine-tune it and get into the season and see what we need. Having said that, I’m not ruling anything out. But those people who attach us to every free agent out there are making it up.

Along with Cano and Tanaka, the Dodgers have also been linked to Tampa Bay Rays ace David Price, but it doesn’t sound like Kasten and company want to part with any top prospects.

Not to mention, contract extensions for Hanley Ramirez and Clayton Kershaw loom as both can be free agents after the 2014 season. Juan Uribe reportedly wants a three-year deal, but that doesn’t sound like something the Dodgers are comfortable doing.

In the same interview, Kasten discussed where the organization was with their plans for the team:

We’re in the latter phase of Phase I and the beginning of Phase II. But we’re not fully into Phase II.

The Dodgers shored up their pitching staff with the Dan Haren signing, but it definitely doesn’t sound like they’re done adding to the team before the 2014 season.

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ICYMI: The Dodgers and Dan Haren reached agreement on a one-year deal