4 big-name free agents the Dodgers must avoid at all costs

2. Aroldis Chapman

Aroldis Chapman’s New York Yankees tenure came to a staggering end when he essentially ghosted them and was kept off the playoff roster as a result. It’s pretty clear that Chapman isn’t going to put the pinstripes back on as he will play for his fourth career team in 2023.

The Dodgers have been interested in Chapman before. They nearly traded for him before he was originally sent to the Yankees (the first time, before he was traded to the Cubs and then came back to New York).

The trade was axed after a reported incident that eventually led to Chapman getting suspended for 30 games as part of MLB’s Joint Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault and Child Abuse policy. No charges were filed.

While that alone is enough of a reason for the Dodgers to stay away from someone they had a previous interest in, his performance on the field should be the icing on the cake. Chapman was really bad last season and fully lost his fastball.

Los Angeles might be known for bringing in big-name relievers, like Blake Treinen, and restoring them close to the best version of themselves. While they could consider doing the same with Chapman, they ultimately should stay away.