The Los Angeles Dodgers, who recently secured back-to-back World Series titles, have been aggressively reshaping their roster this winter with significant financial commitments. They’ve already committed over $300 million in free agency, bringing in top-tier talent such as closer Edwin Díaz and reportedly nearing an announcement on Kyle Tucker’s four-year, $240 million deal. Despite the substantial investment, it appears the Dodgers might not be finished. Their latest interest centers on adding a high-caliber starting pitcher from the Milwaukee Brewers, Freddy Peralta. Coming into his final pre-free agency season with a career ERA of 2.70 across 33 starts, Peralta is actively being sought after on the trade market, especially given the Dodgers’ need to bolster their rotation.
The Case for Adding Freddy Peralta
Why the Dodgers Are Eyeing Peralta
Injuries ravaged the Dodgers’ starting staff last season, prompting a reassessment of their pitching depth and health strategies. Players like Blake Snell, Tyler Glasnow, Roki Sasaki, and Emmet Sheehan all faced time on the injured list, while Shohei Ohtani’s season was delayed until mid-June due to recovery from an injury. Manager Dave Roberts hinted at a potential rotation adjustment, possibly adopting a six-man or hybrid approach to maximize rest and recovery.
The Dodgers boast a deep pool of pitching talent, including Sheehan, Gavin Stone, River Ryan, Ben Casparius, and Justin Wrobleski—each capable of spot starts and still possessing options. However, the need for a top-tier, controllable starter remains, especially one with a consistent track record like Peralta’s. Given the injury history and the importance of a reliable rotation, acquiring a pitcher like Peralta makes sense, especially since control and durability are key factors in postseason success.
The Trade Market and Strategic Fit
Peralta’s value on the trade market is high, particularly because teams like the Brewers are believed to want a major league-ready return if they move him. The Brewers are known for their focus on developing pitching talent, which aligns well with the Dodgers’ robust farm system. In a potential deal, Los Angeles could leverage prospects on their 40-man roster or established players to meet Milwaukee’s demands.
One advantage the Dodgers hold is their rich prospect pool, which they haven’t heavily tapped into this winter, giving them leverage to acquire top talent without risking their core future. Notably, outfielder Ryan Ward, who had a standout season in Triple-A with 36 homers and a .290 batting average, could be part of a package. The departure of Tucker’s arrival makes Ward more expendable, offering the Dodgers a valuable asset for trade negotiations.
Assessing the Dodgers’ Depth and Player Health
More Read
Pitching Depth and Injury Concerns
While the Dodgers have an impressive array of pitchers, their recent injury history raises questions about vulnerability. Besides Ohtani, who will be used as a true starter in 2026 but will require extra recovery days, other starters experienced significant setbacks. Sasaki, who made only 10 starts in his rookie season due to shoulder issues, is expected to return to the rotation but will need built-in recovery periods. Snell, who missed much of last season with shoulder inflammation, is another health concern that warrants careful management.
Sheehan, who showed promise after rehabbing from Tommy John surgery, is still being monitored as he transitions back to a full season. The Dodgers are aware that even if their starters come into camp healthy, the risk of injury remains, and teams across the league are seeing increased arm problems early in the season. Adding Peralta would provide a much-needed insurance policy—given that he’s averaged over 30 starts in each of the past three seasons.
The Importance of Insurance and Flexibility
With the possibility of injuries always looming, the Dodgers are approaching spring training with a cautious mindset. Having a dependable, controllable starter like Peralta could prove invaluable, especially as the team plans to operate conservatively early in the season. The team has prepared for this contingency with versatile options like Sheehan and others, but trading for a veteran like Peralta would add stability and depth.
Furthermore, Peralta’s contractual situation offers additional appeal. At an anticipated salary of around $8 million in 2026, he fits into the Dodgers’ payroll structure. The club also could explore extending his contract, potentially offering a more lucrative deal than what the Brewers could provide, securing immediate future control.
Trade Dynamics and Market Leverage
Milwaukee holds the upper hand with Peralta’s trade value. As a valuable and durable pitcher, the Brewers are under no obligation to part with him unless the terms are highly favorable. Their inclination toward developing young, controllable talent aligns with the Dodgers’ existing assets, making a trade plausible if the right package is proposed.
The Dodgers’ willingness to engage in discussions signifies their recognition of the potential upgrade Peralta offers. If Milwaukee is open to listening, Los Angeles is prepared to push forward, leveraging their depth of prospects and experienced players to craft a competitive offer.
What the Future Holds
The Dodgers’ offseason underscores their aggressive approach to maintaining a championship-caliber roster. With the significant investments already made, they demonstrate a readyness to pursue high-impact additions that can fill strategic needs. Their interest in Freddy Peralta highlights their focus on ensuring durability and quality in their starting staff, especially given the injury risks and need for roster flexibility.
While no deal is certain, the Dodgers’ consistent willingness to explore all options makes them a constant threat in the trade market. As spring training approaches, the likelihood of a deal involving Peralta or similar top-tier starters remains high, reflecting Los Angeles’ relentless pursuit of excellence and commitment to contending at the highest level in 2026.
