The Los Angeles Dodgers are expected to be active buyers at the upcoming trade deadline, according to a May 20 report by The Athletic’s Jim Bowden. The team has faced several injuries within its pitching staff this season, prompting speculation that management will seek additional support.
Bowden said the Dodgers’ recent injury challenges have influenced their approach in previous summers and could do so again this year. “Blake Snell returned briefly from the IL before going back on the shelf with loose bodies in his pitching elbow,” Bowden wrote. “LA lost their impact closer Edwin Díaz to elbow surgery but Tanner Scott and Alex Vesia have stepped up thus far. Their pitching depth has been tested, and the Dodgers signed lefty swingman Eric Lauer over the weekend to help them through this stretch.”
Despite these setbacks, Bowden noted that expectations for Los Angeles remain high. “Despite the uneven start, the Dodgers are still the favorites to win it all. Injuries will dictate what they look to add at the deadline but they will be buyers as usual.”
Currently leading their division by a narrow margin, Los Angeles is looking to extend its lead against San Diego later this week. In past seasons when faced with similar issues, such as last year’s string of pitcher injuries, they traded James Outman for Brock Stewart and made additional moves including a three-team deal for Ben Rortvedt, Paul Gervase and Adam Serwinowski.
Beyond addressing injuries, recent trades have also aimed at boosting competition among position players—last season saw Alex Call acquired amid struggles by Michael Conforto.
Looking ahead to this year’s deadline, observers expect more roster changes as management seeks both depth and performance improvements.
