The Los Angeles Dodgers have officially announced a five-year, $182 million contract with left-handed starting pitcher Blake Snell. The agreement, which includes some deferred compensation, was reported by ESPN’s Jeff Passan and Jorge Castillo. Additionally, the contract features a $52 million signing bonus, according to Jon Heyman of the New York Post.

Prior to the confirmation of the deal, Snell hinted at the signing through his Instagram, sharing an image of himself in a Dodgers uniform with the caption, 'LA 👀.' Snell, who previously signed a two-year, $62 million contract with the San Francisco Giants last offseason, opted out of a $38.5 million player option for 2025 to enter free agency, as reported by USA Today's Bob Nightengale.

During the past season, Snell recorded a 5-3 record with a 3.12 ERA and 145 strikeouts across 104 innings pitched. His performance was impacted by two trips to the injured list due to a left adductor strain and a groin injury, limiting him to 20 starts. The previous year, he secured his second Cy Young Award, finishing with a 14-9 record and an MLB-best 2.25 ERA while striking out 234 batters over 180 innings in 32 starts. Although Snell is known for averaging just over five innings per start, he remains a formidable presence on the mound and a key asset for the Dodgers. If he maintains his health and reaches 30 or more starts, another Cy Young candidacy is a distinct possibility.

On November 14, Jon Heyman reported that the Dodgers were exploring options for free agent pitchers, including Snell, Corbin Burnes, and Max Fried, alongside their pursuit of Japanese ace Roki Sasaki. With the acquisition of Snell, the defending World Series champions have further solidified their position as frontrunners for the upcoming season. Following a season plagued by injuries within their starting rotation, the Dodgers plan to implement a six-man rotation in 2025, making Snell's addition both timely and strategic.