National League West Preview: Los Angeles Dodgers

Key Additions: 

Matt Kemp – In what was supposed to be a salary swap, the Dodgers unloaded several players to re-take the contract of Matt Kemp. They tried to move Kemp after the trade, but no one was willing to take on that terrible contract. Now the 33-year-old has a chance to start on Opening Day for the Dodgers. Regardless, it’s hard to imagine Kemp being on this team all year, or playing a significant role.

Chase Utley – The 39-year-old Utley somehow got a 2-year deal from the Dodgers this offseason. He is strictly here to provide a veteran presence and be a back-up on the infield.

Tom Koehler – The Dodgers signed Koehler this past offseason hoping the struggling starter could bounce back in the bullpen. But a shoulder injury now has him out indefinitely.

Key Departures: 

Adrian Gonzalez, Scott Kazmir, Brandon McCarthy and Charlie Culberson – All four of these guys were sent to the Atlanta Braves in part of the money swap for Kemp. Gonzalez and Kazmir have both been released by the Braves now and are pretty much washed up at this point. McCarthy and Culberson will be tough losses as they added solid depth to the rotation and bench.

Yu Darvish – Darvish left after helping the Dodgers lose the World Series, and now he will try to do the same for the Cubs. But seriously, Darvish will be a huge loss in this rotation.

Bradon Morrow – Another former Dodger that will be playing for the Cubs this year, Morrow was crucial out of the pen last year. Part of the scrutiny Dave Roberts took in the World Series was his overuse of Morrow.

Tony Watson – The Dodgers acquired Watson at the trade deadline last year and he was great for them down the stretch and in the postseason. Now he will be great for the San Francisco Giants.

Andre Ethier – I only mention Ethier here because I thought that terrible marriage would never end. He hasn’t been a factor for years.

Curtis Granderson – Another trade deadline move for the Dodgers last year. While he had some moments, he didn’t have much of an impact for LA.