As the July 31 trade deadline quickly approaches, the Los Angeles Dodgers continue being linked to some of the biggest names available that could be on the move in the next two days.
Still looking to bolster their inconsistent bullpen, the Dodgers have maintained interest in acquiring New York Mets closer Edwin Diaz. Though he is in the midst of a down year, the right-hander would undoubtedly add some much needed firepower to the backend of the bullpen.
Moreover, the Dodgers have explored adding another starting pitcher to their star-studded rotation. They were reportedly in the mix to acquire Marcus Stroman before he was traded to the Mets and still have their sights set on landing Noah Syndergaard — however it is unclear if New York is willing to still trade him.
With plenty of rumors and speculation to absorb, manager Dave Roberts is trying to blot out all of the trade talk surrounding his club, via Bill Plunkett of the Southern California News Group:
“This is a group of guys that has been through it for many years, in this same position. So we’re used to going forward and focusing on the day at hand. But there’s a lot of talk obviously about it,” Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said.
“I think there’s certain players on every club – and our club is no different – that are more in tune with it than they probably should be. I try to guard against that (personally). But guys are going to do what they’re going to do. It’s just not very beneficial. … Some of it is in fun. They’re very curious. But it’s out of their control.”
While the month of July can be stressful for some players — especially those on selling teams — most of the names rumored to depart Los Angeles in potential trades are prospects that have yet to reach the Majors.
Keibert Ruiz, who has found his name in trade rumors more often than not, is said to be highly coveted by the Pittsburgh Pirates, who have contemplated dealing left-hander Felipe Vazquez.
Though a blockbuster has yet to come to fruition, the Dodgers have nonetheless orchestrated two Major League trades in July thus far. They first acquired Tyler White from the Houston Astros to compensate for David Freese being placed on the 10-day injured list.
And most recently on Sunday, L.A. added some infield depth from the Seattle Mariners in the form of Kristopher Negrón, who provides insurance now that Kiké Hernandez is likely going to land on the injured list himself.
Roberts is prepared for any outcome that may take place in the next 48 hours, previously expressing his confidence in president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman to make an impact move if the opportunity arises.
