Dodgers joining big-market derby for Lester

Jon Lester has a long list of deep-pocketed suitors seeking his services. (USATSI)

The Dodgers have expressed interest in both top free-agent starters Jon Lester and Max Scherzer, and it appears they may make a late try for Lester, who’s expected to make a decision among four or so teams within a week or so.

WEEI radio station in Boston first suggested that, in fact, the Dodgers are a fourth mystery team to join the Red Sox, Cubs and Giants in the hunt for the left-hander Lester. The Braves also had a visit with Lester, though seem disinclined to engage in the type of bidding war it would take.

The Dodgers have been under the radar about their plans. They have yet to make a big splash though they are believed to have finished third in the derby to bring back catcher Russell Martin, bidding somewhere in the $60 million to $65 million range for four years.

Lester would be a lot more expensive than that.

The new regime Dodgers have picked up only spare pieces thus far and made a few suggestions about paring their record payroll from $240 million, but they need to bolster their rotation. While they look terrific at the top of the rotation, with three-time Cy Young winner Clayton Kershaw plus Zack Greinke and Hyun-Jin Ryu, Greinke can opt out after the 2015 season. It also isn’t an especially deep rotation.

The Dodgers also may have interest in James Shields depending on what happens with the top two pitchers on the market.

The Cubs are thought to have bid $138 million over six years, and the Red Sox $130 million over six, as was reported by CBSSports.com first, though the bidding is expected to hit $150 million or more, considering the participants in the derby and Lester’s wonderful resume.

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