The more the days progress in this MLB offseason, the more we seem to be heading towards a scenario where Justin Verlander would not be back in the uniform of the Houston Astros. This avenue is not completely ruled out, but let’s say the chances are dwindling.
So that brings us to the 39-year-old Gunner’s next destination. And that’s where the Los Angeles Dodgers emerge as the favorites to get their hands on Verlander. At least that’s what Jon Morosi thinks, and I believe the same.
It is that the philosophy of the Dodgers leads them more often than not to field pitchers with experience, being in a mode where we must win quickly.
The construction of their contracts, granting a higher salary annually, but over a shorter period of time, allows them to add several veterans to their corps of pitchers. And Verlander fits exactly this profile. He should sign a pact of two or three years, with a very high annual value.
Also, pitcher Walker Buehler’s Tommy John-type surgery will keep him out of action for the next season. We saw that his absence hurt the California team during the last playoffs.
Other teams will also be dancing to sign Verlander, especially if the New York Mets fail to secure the services of Jacob deGrom, but the Dodgers remain the preferred destination.
