MLB Trade Rumors 2014: L.A. Dodgers To Trade Prospects For David Price

The Los Angeles Dodgers are very much capable of pulling off the trade that would give them former American League Cy Young Winner David Price, having the rights over top farm prospects such Zach Lee and Joc Pederson.

According to ESPN writer Jim Bowden via SB Nation writer Ray Guilfoyle, the Dodgers are the frontrunners to get Price because of their prospects.

Despite the firm stance of Dodgers general manager Ned Colletti not to include Lee and Pederson in any trade negotiations, several baseball insiders believed this team can pull the trigger on a deal at some point this winter.

"Bowden feels that the Dodgers might have the best deal on the table right now, saying that a package of Zach Lee and Joc Pederson might get it done. I assume the Dodgers would have to throw in another lower rated prospect to land Price, but it was surprising to hear Bowden opine that the Rays may have to settle for a package of Lee and Pederson for Price," the SB Nation writer stated.

Pederson is a highly regarded prospect by the Dodgers organization. However, the presence of four All-Star outfielders on the Dodgers roster has made him dispensable. Pederson batted .278 with 22 home runs and 58 RBIs and played in this year's Future Game at Citi Field.

Meanwhile, Lee went 10-10 with a 3.22 ERA at Double A Chattanooga. He also showed better command with a 3.74 strikes-to-bases on balls rate, but the loaded Dodgers starting lineup has prevented him from making a debut in the big leagues.

Ross Gasmer of Dodgers Nation said the Dodgers might need to surrender another mid-tier to low prospect to finally land Price. Infield prospects Corey Seager and Julio Urias could also be included in the package, should the Dodgers continue their pursuit of the ace pitcher.

"Many believe the Dodgers are favorites for Price, but it's been assumed it'd take Corey Seager or Julio Urias to get a deal done. Seager is the Dodgers top infield prospect while Urias is just 17-years-old and could be in the big leagues very quickly. Not to mention, acquiring Price would also mean contract extensions for he and Clayton Kershaw would take place simultaneously and could be difficult to accomplish," the Dodgers Nation writer said.