The biggest question is the decision of Manny Ramirez. The Dodgers offered him, as well as Derek Lowe and Casey Blake arbitration. All three are unlikely to take the Dodgers up on this, but the move was made to ensure at least one first round draft pick and a sandwich pick in the 2009 Draft. The Dodgers will have to compete with the Twins for Blake, who offered him a two-year, $6 million deal.
The Dodgers also passed up arbitration on Rafael Furcal, which likely means they will be in pursuit of a new shortstop. They have offered a minor-league contract to veteran Juan Castro, which would likely make him the back-up shortstop for the club if he accepts.
The #1 need, though, is starting pitching. With Maddux expected to announce his retirement on Monday, and Lowe likely passing up his arbitration, the Dodgers have some spots in their rotation to fill. They will also likely not follow through on the 2009 option for Brad Penny. This would leave the ace position to Chad Billingsley, but his expectations for 2009 remain a question after undergoing surgery for a broken leg two weeks ago. The Dodgers may propose a one or two year offer to a veteran starter, with names like Randy Johnson and Andy Pettitte popping up. But just a few days ago Torre reported that the Dodgers would not pursue Pettitte after he declined the Yankees one-year deal.
Full list of Dodger FA’s: Lowe, Blake, Penny, Maddux, Manny, Blake, Furcal, Joe Beimel, Chan Ho Park, Nomar, Jeff Kent, Mark Sweeney, Gary Bennett, Jason Johnson, Pablo Ozuna.
