Dodgers Rumored To End Pursuit Of Two Relievers

The Los Angeles Dodgers are still searching for bullpen help during the offseason, but they won't be adding New York Yankees' reliever Andrew Miller or Cincinnati Reds' closer Aroldis Chapman. 

The Dodgers had a deal to acquire Chapman from the Reds, before the trade fell apart after teams discovered Chapman was involved in an October incident that the MLB is now investigating. Chapman is the hardest throwing pitcher in the majors, regularly topping 100 mph. The all-star closer has saved at least 22 games in four straight years for the Reds. He posted a 1.63 ERA last year, but his trade value was ruined by the MLB investigation. 

After the Chapman deal fell through, the team targeted Miller. The 6-foot-7 lefty has bounced around the league several times and last year was the first time he was a closer for the bulk of the season. Miller saved 36 games for New York, posting a 2.04 ERA and a .859 WHIP. The 30-year old has pitched in the majors for 10 years with five different teams. He could serve as a closer or set-up man. 

However, it seems unlikely that Dodgers will add Miller. The Yankees are asking for a quality starting pitcher, something the Dodgers don't want to give away. If the Dodgers make a move, they'll likely send away prospects and not MLB-ready starters. 

With Ken Giles in Houston, the Dodgers options for adding a top-flight reliever are limited. Perhaps they'll end up waiting out the Chapman situation or for the Yankees to drop their asking price.