The Dodgers are "making a push" for free agent pitcher Hisashi Iwakuma after failing to re-sign Zack Greinke, according to FOX Sports' Ken Rosenthal.
Why this rumor makes sense
Los Angeles reportedly had interest in bringing Greinke back, but after he signed a new deal with the Diamondbacks, the Dodgers are seeking another starter. Johnny Cueto could be another option for the organization, however the club might not have interest in investing that much in Cueto.
Iwakuma would make sense for the Dodgers because of his age. He is currently 34 and after spending his entire major league career with the Mariners probably would not request a lengthy contract.
Iwakuma had a notable amount of success with the Mariners last season, pitching to a 3.54 ERA and 3.74 FIP over 129.0 innings. He has made at least 20 starts in each of his four seasons in Seattle and would give the Dodgers an effective and relatively affordable right-handed option to add to their rotation.
Throughout the course of his career, Iwakuma has relied on a middle-tier 88mph fastball and a splitter. Regardless, he has had success and is unlikely to regress significantly as some pitchers do late in their careers.
Why this rumor does not make sense
While Iwakuma will likely prove to be effective and inexpensive, there are numerous other pitchers who could be better suited to pitch in Los Angeles.
The Dodgers could still pursue Johnny Cueto, and Jeff Samardzija and Scott Kazmir might also intrigue the organization.
Although Iwakuma would not likely demand a large contract, the Dodgers have not turned away from larger deals over the last few seasons. As a result, paying for one of the top free agent starters available might be more realistic for the club.
If the Dodgers are thinking long term, Iwakuma might not make sense either. If he signs a two or three year deal, the Dodgers will be seeking starting help again in the near future.
Likeliness overall: 5/10
The possibility of adding Iwakuma could intrigue the Dodgers. However, they are more likely to pursue one of the bigger names on the market.