It appears the Marlins aren’t the only team wary of issuing no-trade clauses this offseason.
The Los Angeles Times reports the Dodgers could be reluctant to offer that type of protection to free agents this offseason. It’s a philosophy that team president Stan Kasten embraced since his days with the Braves and Nationals.
But that position could prevent the Dodgers from luring high-profile free agents such Zack Greinke and Anibal Sanchez to Los Angeles. Kasten declined to tell the Times whether he’d make a sacrifice and include the no-trade clause in special situations.
If not, the Dodgers’ primary competition to lock down Greinke’s services would be the Rangers. The Angels were initially contenders, but likely took themselves out of the hunt by signing pitcher Joe Blanton.
The no-trade clause has become especially notable on the heels of the Marlins’ recent fire sale. Last offseason, the club refused to offer Jose Reyes, Mark Buehrle and Heath Bell –– all top free agents at the time –– no-trade protection.
Then, less than a year later, the Marlins shipped Reyes and Buehrle to the Blue Jays while sending Bell to the Diamondbacks. It was a controversial move, one that is prompting players to request trade protection moving forward.
Despite the discrepancy, the Dodgers are certainly in position to outbid opposing teams for top-flight free agents. But as of now, Dodgers general manager Ned Colletti still wasn’t certain of Greinke’s status.
“Conversations are getting deeper,” Colletti said. “I don’t know if people are quite ready to make their choices.”
Either way, a no-trade clause could be the difference between signing a free agent or not.
Thumbnail via Facebook/Los Angeles Dodgers
