Dodgers: 3 moves to improve the Dodgers while staying under the tax

MIAMI, FL - MAY 01: Corey Kluber #28 of the Cleveland Indians delivers a pitch in the first inning against the Miami Marlins at Marlins Park on May 1, 2019 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Mark Brown/Getty Images)
MIAMI, FL - MAY 01: Corey Kluber #28 of the Cleveland Indians delivers a pitch in the first inning against the Miami Marlins at Marlins Park on May 1, 2019 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Mark Brown/Getty Images) /
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ATLANTA, GEORGIA – OCTOBER 09: Josh Donaldson #20 of the Atlanta Braves hits a solo home run against the St. Louis Cardinals during the fourth inning in game five of the National League Division Series at SunTrust Park on October 09, 2019 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images) /

Sign Josh Donaldson

While every Dodger fan wants Anthony Rendon, there is a good chance he never leaves the Nationals.  Not to mention that if the Dodgers sign him, they would need to get very creative in how they fill their other roster weaknesses.  Josh Donaldson is the next best third baseman and he will likely sign a two-year deal.  Keeping in line with the theme, his contract would clear after 2021.

Not only is Josh Donaldson a serious power threat, but he is also an underrated defender.  He posted a DRS of 15 in 2019.  Signing him could shift Justin Turner to first base and Max Muncy to second base.  Gavin Lux would be without a position but he could always get a few starts a week at second base, shortstop, and possibly even the outfield if the Dodgers choose to try him out there.

Justin Turner is in a contract year in 2020 and his defense at third base is becoming an issue.  Donaldson could fill in at third base for 2020 and 2021 bridging the gap to either Corey Seager at third base or Kody Hoese.  His contract would be up after 2021 which is when the Dodgers see a ton of salary come off the books just in time to extend some of their young core.