Dodgers taking great risk relying on talented prospects to replace All-Stars

Many Dodgers fans were disappointed after the offseason came and went without the signing of a star player. Names like Aaron Judge, Carlos Correa, and Carlos Rodón, just to name a few, were all available; however, none will play the 2023 season in Dodger blue.

What didn’t help the frustration was that they also saw the departure of superstar Trea Turner, as well as some longtime fan favorites in Justin Turner and Cody Bellinger. While the Dodgers did bring in J.D. Martinez and Noah Syndergaard, it’s hard to satisfy a fan base that has been spoiled with big names and constant excellence.

Dodgers prospects to replace Justin Turner, Cody Bellinger

What this has done for the Dodgers is open the door for their prospects to burst onto the scene. Players like Miguel Vargas, Bobby Miller, Ryan Pepiot, and maybe even James Outman will have the chance to prove themselves. 2021 and 2022 were both excellent years for Vargas in the minor leagues, and Outman is currently batting an incredible .462 in Spring Training. For the pitchers, Miller is the Dodgers No. 2 prospect, while Pepiot is their No. 6 prospect. Both are clearly viewed highly and are seen as future rotation pieces.

With the unfortunate injury to Gavin Lux, this could also mean big league time for Dodgers No. 4 prospect, second baseman Michael Busch. The Dodgers are known for having a great eye for young talent. They have also historically shown that they are able to develop that talent. 

So yes, not adding big-name free agents may initially seem disheartening, but it also presents an exciting path. These young players could turn out to be the next Cody Bellinger, Corey Seager, Max Muncy, or even Alex Verdugo. They just need an opportunity to show it, and that is what this season gives them. 

The Dodgers have also come up short every season since winning the World Series in 2020. It’s possible that this change of strategy could be a healthy one. New, young players all playing to prove themselves could be highly beneficial to the Dodgers organization. If it does happen to turn out poorly for them, everyone knows the willingness to spend money still remains. Until then, let the prospects show off.