Curious about Michael Conforto’s new contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers? Signed as a key outfield addition, Conforto brings experience and a left-handed bat to a roster in need of depth, especially after missing out on Juan Soto.
Here’s everything you need to know about Conforto’s signing, his impact on the Dodgers’ lineup, and what it means for their offseason strategy moving forward.
Did Michael Conforto sign with Dodgers?
Yes, Michael Conforto signed a one-year, $17 million contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers on December 9, 2024, as confirmed by various sources. The deal includes an $8.5 million signing bonus and deferred money contingent upon a successful physical.
Conforto, a 31-year-old outfielder, played the past two seasons with the San Francisco Giants, hitting .237 with 20 home runs and 66 RBIs in 2024. His career began with the New York Mets, where he became an All-Star in 2017. After missing the 2022 season due to shoulder surgery, he returned to the MLB with solid, albeit not exceptional, performances over the last two years.
The Dodgers were one of the finalists in the race to sign Juan Soto but lost out to the New York Mets, who offered Soto a record-breaking 15-year, $765 million contract. Following this development, the Dodgers pivoted to Conforto to address their outfield needs. Conforto provides depth as a left-handed hitter in a relatively thin outfield roster.
The Dodgers needed more outfield depth, with Mookie Betts transitioning to the infield. Conforto effectively fills this gap. His .257 career average against right-handed pitchers highlights his strategic value. Additionally, his career OPS of .804 reflects consistent offensive contributions.
Adding Conforto reflects the Dodgers’ active offseason spending. Recent moves include signing Blake Snell and extending Tommy Edman. Despite this, the Dodgers remain actively pursuing additional outfield options, particularly Hernández, who had an impactful 2024 season.
The Dodgers’ focus on versatile players like Conforto reflects their commitment to shoring up their roster after missing out on more prominent free agents. Though not a blockbuster move, Conforto’s addition strategically enhances the Dodgers’ competitiveness for the 2025 season.
