Gauging Dodgers’ Possible Interest in All-Star Shortstop

The Toronto Blue Jays are “fielding interest” regarding their starting shortstop Bo Bichette , according to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic. It is unclear which teams have checked in, but it wouldn’t be a surprise if the Los Angeles Dodgers President of Baseball Operations didn’t at least pick up the phone. The question is would the Dodgers take a chance on the Jays shortstop and what would it cost Los Angeles to swing a deal?

Dodgers Could Show Interest in Bo Bichette

Why LA?

The Dodgers have announced that Mookie Betts would be the Opening Day shortstop for 2025. However, things could change. How soon is anyone’s guess, but shortstop is the most demanding position on the infield aside from catcher. It seems like a stopgap move for LA. The rationale for moving Betts from the outfield was to prevent wear and tear on his body. If the move to the six hole is a detriment to his at-bats, it would behoove the Dodgers to put him back at second base.

Why Bichette?

Admittedly, the Toronto shortstop had a bad year in 2024. His batting average dipped to .224 and he hit just four home runs. However, the 27-year-old was dealing with a calf strain and a broken finger which had to be surgically repaired. Would the offseason to recover and a change of scenery bring back the Bichette who was once the 22nd-best player in all of baseball in Wins Above Replacement? Once healthy, the Blue Jay could have a high upside. After all, he has a career .290 batting average in a six-year career.

Not A Lux(ury) Anymore

Apparently, the Dodgers are not opposed to trading Gavin Lux if the right deal comes along. Rumors were circling that he was part of a trade package for Devin Williams, but the high-leverage reliever went to the Bronx instead. The former top prospect in the Los Angeles organization has mostly underwhelmed in a Dodger uniform, but in the second half of the 2024 season,  Lux hit above .300.

The Cost

Toronto has said the price would be high if Bichette were to be moved, but how much can you ask for a one-year rental? Would Gavin Lux be a high enough return to entice them? Probably not, but it would replace the infielder that they would lose. Perhaps if the Dodgers threw in a starting pitcher to lengthen the Jays rotation? Bobby Miller is one of the top arms in the Dodgers organization. Granted, he has struggled this year, but he has a career trajectory similar to Bichette’s. Maybe a fresh start in a place where the limelight isn’t so bright would benefit him.

If not, perhaps a Landon Knack or Justin Wrobleski would suffice.

Redux

Dodgers General Manager Brandon Gomes has said that Los Angeles is not done “making moves” this offseason. If they see a chance to improve the team, they will take it.

Ironically, Bo Bichette was linked to the Dodgers at the Trade Deadline back in July. Will history repeat itself before Opening Day arrives? Whatever happens, it gives fans something to talk about.