By Drew VonScioShareNewsweek is a Trust Project memberThe Los Angeles Dodgers are always looking for ways to get better, and they have no intentions of slowing down after repeating as World Series champions.
So far this winter, the organization has already spent $69 million to bolster its bullpen by signing closer Edwin Diaz. The Dodgers have been connected to some of the big-name free agents such as Kyle Tucker and Cody Bellinger who are expected to land major contracts.
One area where the Dodgers could receive a boost is the infield, and Kazuma Okamoto makes a lot of sense to help improve the team now and in the future.
...Prediction: Dodgers sign Kazuma Okamoto to a 3-Year Deal Worth $60 Million (Including Posting Fee)
According to ESPN's Kiley McDaniel, Okamoto's posting fee will come in at roughly $6.925 million. This would take the remaining $50.175 million and spread it out over the three years of his projected contract. Okamoto would then receive an average annual value of $16.725 million.
Signing Okamoto, who is primarily a third baseman, would also help the Dodgers in a big way. Max Muncy is 36 years and old and is only under team control through next season. Adding Okamoto this winter would provide the Dodgers with an insurance policy and help provide a seamless transition if Los Angeles does not bring him back.
Unlike Tatsuya Imai, Okamoto has not openly expressed a desire to play against the Dodgers. He would help strengthen the Japanese culture within the clubhouse and help the franchise gain even more popularity overseas.
Okamoto's contract has the chance to go a little higher than most expect, simply due to his demand. This would especially be the case if Alex Bregman comes off the board before his signing deadline on Jan. 4 at 5 p.m. It would shift the entire dynamic of his market.
The Dodgers make a lot of sense to land Okamoto this offseason.
More MLB: Red Sox to Cut Ties With Veteran Slugger After Willson Contreras Trade?
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