Dodgers moving toward deal with reliever J.P. Howell

The Dodgers are moving toward signing left-handed reliever J.P. Howell to a one-year contract, according to people with knowledge of the situation. If finalized, the deal is expected to be worth $2.75 million.

The Dodgers’ bullpen is short on left-handers. Scott Elbert is their only established left-hander and he is coming off elbow surgery. Their only other left-handed relief option is 21-year-old Paco Rodriguez, who has pitched in 11 major league games.

Howell posted a 3.04 earned-run average in 55 appearances for the Tampa Bay Rays last season. Left-handed hitters batted .200 against him.

Howell spent six of his seven major league seasons with the Rays. He has a career ERA of 4.42.

Howell would be the Dodgers’ second major bullpen addition of the winter. In November, they re-signed closer Brandon League to a three-year contract worth $22.5 million.

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