Blake Snell, the left-handed pitcher and two-time Cy Young Award winner, has reached an agreement with the Los Angeles Dodgers on a notable five-year contract worth $182 million. This deal, which is pending a physical, includes a significant $52 million signing bonus and features some deferred payments, but crucially, there are no opt-outs.
This substantial contract marks the third largest for a left-handed pitcher in MLB history, following David Price’s $217 million deal with the Boston Red Sox in 2015 and Clayton Kershaw’s $215 million contract with the Dodgers in 2014. The signing reinforces the Dodgers’ reputation for aggressive acquisitions in the free agency market; they have now committed more than $100 million on five contracts since the beginning of this offseason, matching the total value of similar contracts from the rest of Major League Baseball combined.
Snell’s decision to join the Dodgers comes after a challenging end to his 2024 season with the San Francisco Giants, where he experienced both injuries and inconsistent performances early on. However, he bounced back remarkably, finishing the season strong with a 3.12 ERA and 145 strikeouts over 104 innings. His ability to perform at such a high level after overcoming difficulties is a testament to his resilience and talent.
The Dodgers’ rotation is now shaping up to be one of the most formidable in the league, potentially featuring Snell alongside superstars like Shohei Ohtani and Tyler Glasnow, as well as other talented pitchers. This infusion of elite talent positions the Dodgers as strong contenders for the upcoming season and provides them with a solid framework for future success.
Snell’s average annual salary of $36.4 million will rank amongst the highest in baseball next year, showcasing the Dodgers’ willingness to invest heavily in elite pitching. As the team gears up for the 2025 season, this strategic move not only aims to defend their championship but also to establish a legacy as they pursue a second consecutive title—a feat not accomplished in MLB since the New York Yankees from 1998 to 2000.
Overall, this contract symbolizes hope and ambition for both Snell and the Dodgers, emphasizing their commitment to excellence as they prepare for the competitive landscape of the upcoming season.