3 Scrooge moves the Dodgers made that killed fans’ Christmas spirit

2. Not Addressing Corey Seager’s Departure

OK, it seems like the Dodgers knew Corey Seager was leaving. And it seems Corey Seager knew Corey Seager was leaving given how quickly this happened. The star shortstop bolted for the Texas Rangers on a 10-year, $325 million contract, and reports made it clear that the Dodgers knew they weren’t going that far to retain him.

So why wasn’t there a lower-budget contingency plan? Marcus Semien at seven years and $175 million, for a power hitter and versatile defender (he plays shortstop and second base) in his prime seems reasonable. What about Javier Baez at six years and $140 million? Maybe an extension for Trea Turner?

Nope, nothing. Do you trust Gavin Lux to hold down the fort at second base? What about Muncy, who shocked fans when he revealed he actually suffered a torn UCL? If we’re the Dodgers, we’d prefer him being stationary at first base and limiting his throws after that revelation.

It was discouraging enough that Seager left, but it’s understandable. That’s a gigantic commitment alongside Mookie Betts’ $365 million contract (and the future commitments to Walker Buehler and Julio Urías on the horizon). But now we have to sit here for months and wonder what the infield is going to look like when a cheaper/similarly effective signing was there for the taking?

We’ll hold out hope for a potential Carlos Correa or Freddie Freeman deal after the lockout … but that’s going to be a long time after Christmas.