MLB Trade Rumors: Dodgers Interested in Justin Morneau

The Dodgers tried to get Carlos Lee to bolster their offense, but they failed.  He simply didn’t want to go to

Los Angeles.  They did, however, get Hanely Ramirez.  Ramirez is a nice addition as long as his bat heats up this year.  But it doesn’t seem like the Dodgers are done.  According to Danny Knobler of CBS Sports, the Dodgers are interested in the Twins’ Justin Morneau.

The Dodgers have been clearly on the prowl for another pitcher and have been heavily linked to both Ryan Dempster and Matt Garza.  It seems, though, Los Angeles is really pushing for everything they need to make a run to the postseason this year – their first year under new ownership.

Morneau has battled injuries the last couple seasons, including a concussion suffered in 2010 that kept him out of most of last season.  In 69 games last year, as Morneau tried to return, he hit just .227/.285/.333.  So far this season, he is getting back on track ever so slightly.  He is hitting .253/.314/.437.  His OPS is hovering just above league average.

Morneau is still just 31 years old, and as a first baseman has many years ahead of him.  These next few seasons should be his prime production years.  If the Dodgers are willing to take a chance on him, they could see a big return.

Morneau is a four-time All-Star and won the American League MVP in 2006.  He is a career .279/.350/.494 hitter.  Should he get back to 100%, he has a chance to start producing like he has in years past.

It’s not clear what the Dodgers may offer in a deal to bring Morneau to Los Angeles, but they will be getting him for at least a year and half.  He is not a free agent until after next season  Morneau is due to make the remainder of his $14 million this year, and he will make $14 million next season as well.

For more on the Dodgers, be sure to check out Lasorda’s Lair.  

For more on the Twins, be sure to check out Puckett’s Pond.