Dodgers Rumors: 4 player opt-outs that can change free agency for LA

3. Xander Bogaerts

Dodgers fans … whether you think so or not, Trea Turner is not a lock to return to LA. Forget about the “reports” about him preferring an east coast team or one that holds spring training in Florida. Turner is about to be the most valuable shortstop in free agency alongside Carlos Correa, Dansby Swanson and likely Xander Bogaerts. This is a prime opportunity to collect every last penny.

In the event he does leave (though we’re hoping he doesn’t!), Bogaerts immediately comes to mind as an option that could be of interest to LA. He can opt into the final three years and $60 million of his deal with the Red Sox, but given the way the organization has treated him when it comes to extension talks as well as the comments he’s made about it, fans don’t see that happening.

Plus, many would venture to say he’s worth more than $20 million per season. He’ll also be entering his age-30 campaign with one, big final payday ahead of him. He won’t command as much as Turner or potentially Swanson (who’s the superior defender out of everyone), so the Dodgers could get a high-profile, household option for cheaper. Not only that, but say the Dodgers want to move Gavin Lux to shortstop full-time, they could perhaps discuss second base with Bogaerts, who might be open to the idea if he’s joining a steadfast contender that pays its star players accordingly.

Are we endorsing this? Not exactly. But Bogaerts is a former teammate of Mookie Betts and could fill what ends up being a massive vacancy in the middle infield if (when) he opts out. Just sayin’.