Dodgers: Which player fits best in LA, Mookie Betts or Francisco Lindor?

The case for Francisco Lindor being the better fit for LA

To begin the case for Francisco Lindor being the better fit, let’s take a shot at Anthony Rendon who spurned the Dodgers in free agency.  While Rendon says he didn’t want to live the “Hollywood lifestyle”, Francisco Lindor was made for the spotlight.  He has a bright smile and the type of charismatic personality that would make him a fan favorite in Los Angeles.  Players like Lindor were made for the “Hollywood lifestyle”.

Getting back to the baseball field, Lindor would upgrade the Dodgers’ infield both defensively and offensively. If Corey Seager was not in a potential deal he could be shifted over to third base where most thought he would eventually end up.  Justin Turner would shift across the diamond to first base with Max Muncy playing second base.  Gavin Lux could be moved around if he is not in the trade.

But that brings us to the downside of adding Francisco Lindor.  Since Lindor is not going to be a one-season rental, the prospect cost to add him would be enormous as it should be.  The Indians have said any potential trades must include Gavin Lux and the Dodgers do not appear willing to give up their top prospect.  Even if Andrew Friedman could get a deal agreed to without Lux, it would likely take other prized young players such as Dustin May or Alex Verdugo.

If Corey Seager is healthy he should put up similar offensive numbers (minus stolen bases) in 2020.  Seager is not as defensively gifted as Lindor but he doesn’t hurt the team as he is merely average at shortstop.  Unless the Indians lower their trade demands for Lindor it’s hard to see him as the better fit of the two when considering everything that comes with a potential trade.