The Los Angeles Dodgers have secured a valuable new member for their pitching staff, acquiring two-time Cy Young Award winner Blake Snell on a contract worth $182 million over five years, as revealed by Jeff Passan on X, previously known as Twitter. The agreement, subject to a physical examination, features a $52 million signing bonus, deferred payments, and a restricted no-trade clause, according to Mark Feinsand. It represents the premier nine-figure signing of the offseason and a bold statement by the current World Series champions.
According to Feinsand on X, “Snell’s contract does not include any opt-out clauses but does come with a $52 million signing bonus. There is some money that will be paid at a later time, but the exact amount remains unknown.”
Upon arrival at Dodger Stadium, Snell brings an impressive track record, boasting two Cy Young Awards (in 2018 and 2023) and a reputation as one of the top left-handed pitchers in the game. The 30-year-old’s standout performance in the 2023 season with the San Diego Padres saw him lead the league with a 2.25 ERA in 32 starts, striking out 234 batters in 180 innings. His outstanding achievements earned him a second Cy Young Award, making him one of the select few pitchers to have won the accolade in both leagues.
The Dodgers are well aware of Snell’s dominance at their home field. He has amassed 39 strikeouts in 31 innings at Chavez Ravine, making him a perfect addition to LA’s pitching rotation.
“Blake Snell’s career stats at Dodger Stadium: 7 starts, 2.03 ERA, 31 IP, 39 strikeouts. His 2.03 ERA is the lowest among all active starting pitchers with a minimum of 7 starts,” as reported by Danny Vietti on X.
The MLB community left in awe as Blake Snell joins the Dodgers during the ongoing free agency frenzy
Snell’s presence strengthens the Dodgers’ pitching rotation, forming a formidable duo with ace Walker Buehler, who is anticipated to make a full recovery by 2025. Bringing Snell onboard also offers a stable cornerstone for a pitching staff that has contended with injuries and inconsistencies in recent times. With Julio Urías departing in free agency and uncertainty surrounding Clayton Kershaw’s future, Snell’s addition becomes even more vital.
Feinsand’s report indicates that Snell’s contract does not feature opt-out clauses, ensuring the Dodgers’ access to the left-handed pitcher until his age-35 season. While the financial arrangement includes deferred payments, the exact figures remain undisclosed. The addition of a limited no-trade clause offers Snell additional security as he joins one of baseball’s most iconic franchises.
By acquiring Snell, the Dodgers clearly express their commitment to maintaining their dominance in the National League. Following their recent World Series victory, adding a pitcher of Cy Young caliber bolsters their title defense and solidifies their pitching rotation as one of the most formidable in the league.
As the Dodgers prepare for the 2025 season, Snell’s signing guarantees their continued competitiveness in both the regular season and playoffs. With his proven track record and familiarity with the NL West, Snell’s arrival could prove pivotal as Los Angeles endeavors to build upon its championship-winning legacy.
Image Source: Blake Snell @ Instagram
