Dodgers Update: Joc To Cubs; Arenado To Cardinals

And just like that, here comes the NL Central. In 2 power moves, the Cubs and Cardinals each add huge pieces! Ok the Cubs still suck, but it's nice to see Joc wanted. Arenado to Cardinals is scary.

JOCTOBER Home Run Derby specialist Joc Pederson agreed to a 1 year-$7million deal with the Chicago Cubs. The deal ends a 7 year run with the Dodgers, and also removes a large pair of brass balls from the lineup. Although he wasn't an everyday player, its hard to argue he wasn't our best postseason hitter over his tenure. He ended the 2020 postseason with a .382/.432/.559 slash line with 8 home runs and a "Joctober" nickname.

The left handed batting specialist could've probably gotten a bigger contract as a platoon player, but he wanted the opportunity to play everyday. The rebuilding Cubs will offer him that playing time.

DODGERS

Joc played hard and with a smile on his face, even as he lost playing time the last few years.

His leaving seemed inevitable after last off-season when the Dodgers traded him to the Angels for a couple days, before the deal was called off by Angels ownership.

On the field, the biggest loss is undoubtedly the intangibles. The outfield was already set with Betts, Bellinger and Pollack with Edwin Rios slotting in as our lefty power bat. Justin Turner is the biggest free agent still pending for the Dodgers: JT wants a 4 year deal, while the Dodgers only want to commit to 2. I think they ultimately reach a deal, but the Blue Jays are in the mix as well. Our other free agents this off-season: P Blake Treinen (re-signed); P Alex Woods (Giants); 2B Kike Hernandez (Red Sox): P Pedro Baez (Astros).

CARDINALS GET ARENADO

The more relevant move is the Rockies reportedly trading All-Star Nolan Arenado to the Cardinals, in the ultimate "F YOU" to the Dodgers. The Dodgers had the best package to offer, so it's clear the Rockies had no intention of dealing with their NL West rival. The third basemen restructured his deal and will now be in St. Louis for 8 years/$214million. BUT he does have opt outs after 2021 and 2022.

No doubt there will be chatter about the Southern California native opting out, but for now the Cardinals jump to a National League contender. Top 3 are probably still Dodgers, Padres, Braves, with St. Louis close behind. The Mets and Phillies are trying to win, Marlins made playoffs last year and the Nationals are always a threat in the East. The Giants could be annoying as well. Glad we won in 2020, cause there's no guarantees going forward.