ByMLB Mocked As Dodgers Continue Powerhouse Roster With Kirby Yates Addition
The Los Angeles Dodgers, already one of the most stacked teams in Major League Baseball, have made another big move by signing reliever Kirby Yates to a one-year, $5.5 million contract. The deal was officially announced on Tuesday, January 10th, 2023.
Yates, a 35-year-old right-hander, is a two-time All-Star and one of the most dominant relievers in the game. He has a career ERA of 2.68 and a WHIP of 0.99, and he has struck out over 11 batters per nine innings. In 2019, he led the league with 41 saves and finished with a 1.19 ERA.
The Dodgers' signing of Yates has been met with mixed reactions. Some fans are excited about the addition of another elite reliever to the bullpen, while others are critical of the team's spending spree. The Dodgers have now spent over $200 million on free agents this offseason, and some believe that they are overpaying for players.
Why the Dodgers' Signing of Yates Makes Sense
There are several reasons why the Dodgers' signing of Yates makes sense. First, Yates is one of the best relievers in the game. He has a proven track record of success, and he will be a valuable addition to the Dodgers' already strong bullpen.
Second, the Dodgers have a lot of money to spend. The team is owned by Guggenheim Baseball Management, a group of investors led by Mark Walter and Todd Boehly. Guggenheim is worth an estimated $10 billion, and the Dodgers have been one of the most profitable teams in baseball in recent years.
Third, the Dodgers are in a win-now mode. The team has not won a World Series since 1988, and they are eager to end their drought. The addition of Yates gives them a better chance of winning the championship in 2023.
Why the Dodgers' Signing of Yates is a Mistake
There are also several reasons why the Dodgers' signing of Yates could be a mistake. First, Yates is 35 years old, and he is entering the twilight of his career. He may not be the same pitcher he was in his prime, and he could be a liability for the Dodgers.
Second, the Dodgers are already very strong in the bullpen. They have several other elite relievers, including Kenley Jansen, Blake Treinen, and Brusdar Graterol. The addition of Yates may not be necessary, and it could be a waste of money.
Third, the Dodgers are already overpaying for players. They have spent over $200 million on free agents this offseason, and they could be setting themselves up for financial trouble in the future.
Conclusion
The Dodgers' signing of Kirby Yates is a controversial move. There are both pros and cons to the deal, and it is too early to say whether it will be a success or a failure. Only time will tell if the Dodgers made the right decision.
However, one thing is for sure: the Dodgers are now the clear favorites to win the World Series in 2023. They have assembled a powerhouse roster, and they are poised to make a deep run into the playoffs.
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