Shohei Ohtani’s potential move to the Los Angeles Dodgers has dominated baseball discussions, but his trade market is heavily influenced by two prominent free agents: **Clayton Kershaw** and **J.D. Martinez**. Both players play pivotal roles in shaping the Dodgers’ offseason strategies and their ability to land Ohtani.
#### Clayton Kershaw’s Future
Kershaw’s status is critical to the Dodgers’ plans. The legendary southpaw has been the face of the franchise for over a decade, but injuries and age have raised questions about his long-term future. If Kershaw decides to retire or sign elsewhere, the Dodgers may find themselves with an unexpected hole in their rotation and additional payroll flexibility.
Ohtani, who has thrived as both a pitcher and a hitter, could partially fill the void left by Kershaw on the mound. However, Ohtani’s UCL injury complicates the situation, as he likely won’t pitch in 2024. This means the Dodgers would need to secure another top-tier starter to maintain their pitching depth, perhaps through a separate trade or free-agent acquisition.
If Kershaw returns on a short-term deal, his mentorship and leadership could be an enticing factor for Ohtani. Kershaw’s presence would give the Dodgers a mix of veteran experience and star power, creating an ideal landing spot for the two-way phenom.
#### J.D. Martinez and the DH Role
J.D. Martinez’s free agency is another significant factor. Martinez was instrumental in bolstering the Dodgers’ lineup in 2023, excelling as their designated hitter. If the Dodgers choose to re-sign him, it could create a logjam for Ohtani, who will likely spend most of 2024 as a DH due to his injury.
Ohtani’s offensive contributions are unmatched, and his ability to anchor a lineup as a DH makes him an invaluable asset. If Martinez departs, the Dodgers would have a clear opening for Ohtani to take over the DH role while he recovers from his pitching hiatus. However, retaining Martinez could force the Dodgers to reconsider how to fit both sluggers into the lineup, potentially affecting their willingness to offer Ohtani a record-breaking contract.
#### Balancing Payroll and Team Needs
The Dodgers are one of the wealthiest franchises in MLB, but their financial flexibility hinges on decisions regarding Kershaw, Martinez, and other offseason priorities. Adding Ohtani would likely require a long-term commitment exceeding $500 million, a move that could limit their ability to address other roster needs.
Ultimately, the decisions surrounding Kershaw and Martinez will play a crucial role in shaping Ohtani’s trade market. The Dodgers must carefully navigate these complexities to ensure they remain frontrunners for the most coveted free agent in baseball.
