Dodgers pounce on former All-Star reliever Corey Knebel in trade with Brewers

The Los Angeles Dodgers bolstered up their bullpen by acquiring Corey Knebel from the Milwaukee Brewers.

The Los Angeles Dodgers won the World Series for the first time since 1988, but in their deep postseason run, their bullpen struggles reared its ugly head numerous times. With the Dodgers poised to potentially become the next MLB dynasty, they decided to strengthen a position of weakness this Hot Stove season.

On Wednesday, the Dodgers acquired former All-Star relief pitcher Corey Knebel from the Milwaukee Brewers in exchange for cash considerations or a player to be named later. Earlier, it was revealed that the Brewers non-tendered Knebel. However, Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic reported that the Dodgers agreed to a trade before the 8 p.m. ET deadline and tendered him a contract for the 2021 season.

Dodgers looking at a repeat campaign

Following the initial news of the non-tender, Knebel was set to make $5 million for this upcoming season, as he enters the final year of arbitration. The Brewers were obviously unwilling to take the chance, but the Dodgers were more than happy to bring him in.

Knebel was an NL All Star in the 2017 season, where he posted a 1.70 ERA, a 1.18 WHIP and 14 saves prior to the Midsummer Classic. Unfortunately, things went downhill for Knebel, as he missed the entire 2019 campaign to undergo Tommy John surgery. Upon his return this year, Knebel struggled mightily for the “Brew Crew.”

In 15 appearances, Knebel recorded a bloated 6.08 ERA and 1.73 WHIP, while striking out 15 batters in 13.1 innings of work.

The Dodgers are hoping Knebel can return to his pre-Tommy John form this upcoming season. He will be in a perfect situation, as the Dodgers boast one of the more potent batting orders in the league. It’s a low-risk, high-reward trade for the reigning World Series champions.