The Dodgers are close to an agreement on a major-league contract with right-handed pitcher Tom Koehler, who could aid the team’s bullpen while providing insurance for the rotation.
Koehler, 31, was non-tendered by Toronto earlier this month. He will still be under team control and eligible for arbitration for the 2019 season.
The signing fits a pattern of bullpen construction practiced under the leadership of president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman. The team has found success in searching for undervalued assets with upside, and the organization believes itself capable of unlocking that hidden potential.
After signing Brandon Morrow to a minor-league contract before the 2017 season, the team saw Morrow flourish into closer Kenley Jansen’s primary setup man in October.