Dodgers Rumors: Team Reportedly In Talks With Scott Baker

The search for depth appears to never end with the new Los Angeles Dodgers front office.

While the team is days away from starting the 2015 season, they continue to look for ways to improve the team. They recently signed right-handed veteran Freddy Garcia to a minor-league deal, and Andrew Friedman has been quoted saying the team has been looking for starting pitching depth. It seems the Dodgers could be addressing that need.

According to Chris Cotillo of MLB Daily Dish, the Dodgers are interested in another veteran right-hander:

Source: #Dodgers in talks with free-agent Scott Baker, who was recently released by #Yankees. NYY hoped to retain on minor-league deal.

— Chris Cotillo (@ChrisCotillo) April 3, 2015

Baker is a nine-year veteran that has spent time with the Minnesota Twins, Chicago Cubs and Texas Rangers. He spent the spring with the New York Yankees and appeared in four games (two starts). Baker allowed nine earned runs in 10.1 innings and was released. Last year he pitched in 25 games (eight starts) for the Rangers, finishing with a 5.47 ERA in 80.2 innings. The 33-year-old won as many as 15 games in a season in his seven years with the Twins. While Baker spent most of 2014 out of the bullpen, he remains an option as a spot starter/long reliever.

Injuries to Hyun-Jin Ryu, Erik Bedard and Chad Gaudin left the Dodgers looking to replenish the depth they lost. Baker could sign a deal before Opening Day and head to the minor leaguers, waiting for a chance to make an impact in Los Angeles.

UPDATE (5:49 PM): It’s not an official announcement, but it appears the Dodgers are done with a deal for Baker.

Hit on former #MNTwins pitcher/old friend early this a.m. & Dodgers steam. Well, told done deal, pending a physical. Flying to AZ tomorrow.

— Darren Wolfson (@DWolfsonKSTP) April 4, 2015

Whoops, ran out characters. That would be Scott Baker to the Dodgers. #mntwins

— Darren Wolfson (@DWolfsonKSTP) April 4, 2015

Dodgers 2015 Spring Training – Paco Rodriguez