Dodgers: Five way too early 2021 free agent targets

Marcus Stroman

The Dodgers are hoping the back-end of their 2020 rotation assembles into a legitimate staff. However, there are plenty of question marks. What does David Price still have left in the tank? Can Julio Urias develop into a full-time starter? What about Alex Wood? Does he prove worthy of signing long-term after inking a one-year deal to prove he can stay healthy?

Sure, Dustin May is on his way up. Tony Gonsolin is ready to emerge as a full-time starter as well. But if the Dodgers want to keep their staff competitive for another championship run next season, they would be wise to add some veteran depth.

Marcus Stroman might be their answer.

The 29-year-old was traded to the Mets in the middle of last season, a surprising move for a team that wasn’t really in the hunt for the postseason. He could find a new home again this year, but either way, he will enter the offseason as a free agent, perhaps the best starter in a relatively weak pitching market.

After a dud 2018 season, Stroman bounced back last year between his time in Toronto and New York. He finished the year with a 10-13 record, but strong underlying statistics. He struck out a career high 7.8 batters per nine innings, while walking only 2.8 batters per nine. His ERA shrunk to 3.22 after reaching 5.54 the season before.

The key with Stroman is having a strong infield defense behind him, something he doesn’t have with the Mets. His sinker is one of the best in the business, resulting in a high ground ball rate. Corey Seager and Gavin Lux could help him become an effective pitcher at Dodger Stadium.