Joaquin Benoit trade rumors: Dodgers pushing hard for deal

The Los Angeles Dodgers may have been in on trade talks involving David Price, Jon Lester and even Cole Hamels during the past few days. But it’s not starting pitching they’re in desperate need of.

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Already equipped with one of the best rotations in baseball, Ned Colletti and the Los Angeles Dodgers front office is looking to reinforce their bullpen and have their eyes set on Joaquin Benoit of the San Diego Padres.

Benoit has been one of the most in-demand relief pitchers available thanks to his ability not only to close, but to play the role of middle reliever as well. Given the back-end of the Dodgers’ bullpen seems rather secure with Kenley Jansen, Joaquin Benoit would likely slide into the setup role which Brian Wilson has struggled with.

Because of that, the Dodgers are said to be pulling out all the stops to acquire the San Diego Padres closer.

Of course, pulling off such a move isn’t going to be easy as Benoit is one of just a few talented relievers available on the market and the Padres have been less than enthusiastic about moving him. I’m venturing to guess sending him up the I-5 to a division rival isn’t exactly atop their wish list either, so the Dodgers are likely going to overpay if they’re to acquire Joaquin Benoit.

Given their place in the standings though, with dreams of playing deep into October, it might be an elevated price worth paying for the Dodgers front office.