The last time the Los Angeles Dodgers won a World Series title was in 1988, and they're not going to win another one anytime soon unless they improve the back end of their rotation and their middle relief. Despite having the highest payroll in baseball each of the past two years, they've left themselves short in those two areas. Also, while they were better up the middle defensively this year, their offense took a step back.
The Dodgers have won three consecutive divisional titles and have little to show for it. Now they have a lot to sort out, possibly a few key players to replace and some additions to make.
Potential free agents: Howie Kendrick, Brett Anderson, Jimmy Rollins, Jim Johnson, Zack Greinke (if he opts out of his contract)
Objective 1: Determine the status of manager Don Mattingly
Mattingly has done an excellent job with the Dodgers, including a 446-363 record, the aforementioned division titles and three consecutive 90-win seasons. Say what you want about the Dodgers' playoff performances, but it's not Mattingly's fault they lack rotation and bullpen depth and another legit middle-of-the-lineup bat. Mattingly has gotten all he can from the teams he has been given, and it would be an embarrassment to the team if he's the one who's forced to take the fall for LA's postseason failings. Still, that may very well happen.
Objective 2: Prepare to replace Greinke
The righty Cy Young Award candidate has three years and $77 million left on his contract but also has an opt-out clause, and he's expected to exercise it at season's end and see if there's a better deal to be had. It's likely there will be, from teams such as the Giants, Cubs, Red Sox, Tigers … or even the Dodgers.