Los Angeles Dodgers: Yu Darvish uncertain of what’s ahead this winter
By Keaton Moore
No sooner was he traded to the Los Angeles Dodgers thanYu Darvish was already fielding questions about what to expect in free agency this winter.
On Monday afternoon, the trade deadline came and went with several teams making significant moves to improve their roster. While many weaker teams became stronger, the already-strong Los Angeles Dodgers became a powerhouse with the acquisition of Yu Darvish from the Texas Rangers.
Yet, as this trade has Dodger fans drooling over the possibility of another 1-2 punch similar to that of Clayton Kershaw and Zack Greinke, Darvish is uncertain of his offseason plans when he becomes a free agent this winter.
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“It’s hard to comment on any of that right now,” Darvish said, when asked if he plans to return to the Rangers this offseason (twitter). “Just gonna have to wait and see till we get to the offseason.”
The Dodgers traded for Darvish with the hope that he can help them break out of their postseason slump. Although they are bound for their sixth consecutive division pennant, the Dodgers have yet to reach the World Series in nearly 30 years.
After three losing postseason runs, Greinke signed with the Arizona Diamondbacks following the 2015 season. The Dodgers traded for Rich Hill the following season to fill the hole Greinke left behind. They managed to reach the NLCS last season, but are still searching for their first World Series appearance since winning it all in a very memorable Series in 1988.
Now, the Dodgers head into October with Darvish alongside Hill and Kershaw with Alex Wood also putting up impressive numbers this season.
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Darvish went on to say that if the “Rangers did offer me like very low money, I’m not going to sign,” adding he is open to talk with any interested team this winter. Lucky for the Dodgers, their wallet is about as deep as the East Sea. If Darvish proves himself to be the difference maker for the Dodgers in the postseason, they are financially suited to keep Darvish in Los Angeles.