MLB Rumors: Josh Beckett expected to be Los Angeles Dodgers fifth starter

May 13, 2013; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers starting pitcher Josh Beckett (61) pitches against the Washington Nationals during the third inning at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports /

The Los Angeles Dodgers have the potential to be World Series contenders yet again in 2014, and one of their strengths is that hardcore pitching rotation they have that seems to be loaded from front to back. The team recently signed pitcher Paul Maholm to add to their rotation but it appears he is merely insurance in case the guy the Dodgers really want starting runs into health issues.

Josh Beckett is expected to be named the Dodgers fifth starter in their rotation this year, meaning that recent acquisition Paul Maholm will be sent to the bullpen for the time being.

Mattingly said Paul Maholm knows he might pitch in relief if Josh Beckett is healthy and the fifth starter.
— Ken Gurnick (@kengurnick) February 9, 2014

Beckett is a guy the Dodgers would love to see step up in a big way this season. With a team primed for a deep October run, the pitching staff this year could be truly powerful if all arms are firing correctly. Beckett has had his share of injury problems in the past, ones that have made him less effective for the Dodgers than fans would like.

He’s getting a chance to rebound in 2014 and the Dodgers rotation already looks like one of the more solid staffs in baseball.

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