Major League Baseball

Reports: Dodgers have 'serious interest' in free-agent LHP Lester

Published Dec. 4, 2014 6:48 a.m. ET

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The Los Angeles Dodgers are the latest team to show serious interest in free-agent left-hander Jon Lester.

The news was first reported by WEEI in Boston and later confirmed by FOX Sports 1 MLB Insider Ken Rosenthal. 

The Boston Red Sox, with whom Lester spent his entire nine-year major-career before being dealt to the Oakland Athletics this past July, the Chicago Cubs and the San Francisco Giants are the other teams reported to be the most serious suitors for Lester.

The Dodgers, whose $240 million-plus payroll was tops in the majors last season, have the resources to potentially outbid the competition in the Lester sweepstakes. And, if necessary, they could clear some payroll by trading one of their high-priced outfielders or even one of their existing aces. According to an MLB Daily Dish report, the Dodgers could shop right-hander Zack Greinke, who can opt out of his contract after the 2015 season. 

Lester, who will turn 31 in January, went 16-11 with a career-best 2.46 ERA in 32 starts for the Red Sox and A's in 2014. He struck out 220 batters in 219 2/3 innings. His postseason performance -- 6-4, 2.57 ERA in 14 games (12 starts) --€“ adds to his appeal.

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