The Los Angeles Dodgers are poised to be buyers at the MLB trade deadline once again. This time around, in the wake of significant injuries, the list of needs on the Dodgers roster is significant. Fortunately, there are some compelling options available with the team already eyeing a few specific players.
The MLB standings play a significant role in which clubs are prepared to be sellers this summer. The Chicago White Sox, Los Angeles Angels, Miami Marlins, Colorado Rockies and Oakland Athletics will be selling off talent this summer. However, there’s more uncertainty regarding potential Dodgers trade targets on teams like the Toronto Blue Jays, New York Mets and Detroit Tigers.
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While the trade market is a little unsettled, the Dodgers front office has had enough time to evaluate some of the players on the worst MLB teams. Of those clubs, two players in particular seem to be generating most of the team’s interest.
According to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, the Dodgers are among the teams interested in both Chicago White Sox outfielder Luis Robert and starting pitcher Garrett Crochet ahead of the MLB trade deadline.
- Luis Robert stats (2023-’24): .254/.311/.534, .845 OPS, 45 home runs, 91 RBI in 637 ABs
Furthermore, the White Sox have assigned some of their top minor-league scouts to focus on the Dodgers’ farm system, along with the San Diego Padres and Seattle Mariners farm systems. This is all viewed as predatory work in case trade talks with any of the teams advance.
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There’s still plenty of uncertainty regarding the likelihood of the White Sox trading either Robert or Crochet. MLB teams who have spoken to Chicago don’t love the asking price and there are some lingering concerns with Robert. As for Crochet, he’s viewed as an even longer shot to be traded.
Also Read: Los Angeles Dodgers trade targets to bolster starting pitching
- Garrett Crochet stats (ESPN): 3.05 ERA, 0.94 WHIP, 130 strikeouts in 94.1 innings pitched
However, the Dodgers top prospects and the depth in their farm system put the team in a position where it could change Chicago’s mind. Asking prices tend to be higher in June than July and the White Sox desire to rebuild could lead to them dealing one of the two players.
It should be noted that if the Dodgers acquired either Crochet or Robert, they would likely have to monitor their workload. Crochet is already at his career-high for innings pitched and just a few years removed from Tommy John surgery, his innings need to be limited.
Robert has dealt with multiple leg injuries in his career and after a lengthy IL stint earlier this season, he could require additional off days for maintenance if he is acquired by a contender.
