The Los Angeles Dodgers have once again made headlines with a bold, high-stakes trade, acquiring former All-Star closer Craig Kimbrel from the Chicago White Sox. Known for their aggressive roster moves and win-now mentality, the Dodgers are reinforcing their bullpen with one of the most accomplished closers in Major League Baseball history. In exchange, they sent outfielder AJ Pollock to Chicago — a move that addresses needs for both sides as they gear up for the 2025 season.
Craig Kimbrel is no stranger to high-pressure situations. The 36-year-old right-hander boasts a career 2.18 ERA and is one of the all-time saves leaders in MLB history. He was instrumental in the Boston Red Sox’s 2018 World Series run, earning him the title of “World Series hero.” Although he’s bounced between a few teams in recent years, including the Cubs and White Sox, Kimbrel remains a formidable force on the mound, especially when healthy and utilized correctly.
Last season, Kimbrel notched 24 saves across 63 appearances, showcasing flashes of his vintage form. His experience and postseason pedigree make him an ideal fit for a Dodgers team with championship aspirations. While some may question his consistency in recent years, the Dodgers’ front office clearly believes he has enough left in the tank to be a difference-maker in October.
On the other side of the deal, the White Sox gain a solid veteran in AJ Pollock, who brings both offensive depth and defensive reliability to Chicago’s outfield. Pollock, who has posted a career .276 batting average and shown pop at the plate, will provide a stabilizing presence in the clubhouse. For a White Sox team looking to reset and retool, his veteran leadership could prove invaluable.
Financially, the deal is relatively balanced. Kimbrel is set to make around $5 million this season, a manageable figure for the Dodgers, especially considering their deep pockets and desire to win now. The move signals Los Angeles’ continued willingness to spend and take risks in pursuit of another World Series title.
This trade also speaks volumes about the Dodgers’ strategy. By bolstering their bullpen, they’re addressing one of the few areas of concern that lingered after an otherwise strong offseason. With a rotation led by names like Walker Buehler and Yoshinobu Yamamoto, and a star-studded lineup featuring Mookie Betts, Freddie Freeman, and Shohei Ohtani, adding a seasoned closer like Kimbrel rounds out a roster that’s already among the league’s best.
Ultimately, this is a statement move. It says the Dodgers aren’t satisfied with regular-season dominance — they want to close games, close gaps, and close out October with another trophy. Whether Kimbrel ends up being the missing piece remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the Dodgers are all in. Again.
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