Report: Dodgers, Red Sox discussing Betts trade

The Los Angeles Dodgers and Boston Red Sox have discussed a trade that would send superstar outfielder Mookie Betts to Hollywood, two officials with direct knowledge of the talks told Bob Nightengale of USA Today.

The talks were described as "exploratory."

At this point, the former American League MVP is more of a "Plan B" for the Dodgers, whose primary focus in trade talks remains Cleveland Indians shortstop Francisco Lindor, Nightengale added.

Lindor has been linked to the Dodgers for some time, and it was reported on Sunday that they're now targeting both him and Indians starter Mike Clevinger. But if negotiations with Cleveland don't progress, the Dodgers could ramp up their pursuit of Betts.

One name being dangled by the Dodgers in talks with both Boston and Cleveland is shortstop Corey Seager, according to Nightengale. Seager, a two-time All-Star, is facing competition at his position from top Dodgers prospect Gavin Lux, a player the team is apparently reluctant to include in any trade.

Betts is expected to draw a record salary for an arbitration-eligible player in 2020, his final season before hitting free agency. Although he's been the face of the Red Sox during their recent run of success, payroll concerns have led to trade rumors this winter.

The 27-year-old didn't repeat his MVP performance in 2019 but he was still a dominant player, hitting .295/.391/.524 with 29 homers, 40 doubles, 80 RBIs, 16 steals, and an MLB-leading 135 runs scored. Betts won his fourth straight Gold Glove Award and his third career Silver Slugger while finishing eighth in MVP voting.

In L.A., he could team up with reigning NL MVP Cody Bellinger to form one of the most potent outfield duos in the sport.

The Red Sox have made no secret about their desire to get under the $208-million luxury-tax threshold after running baseball's highest payroll in 2019.