While all the focus is on the MLB trade deadline, the Los Angeles Dodgers made a minor move, signing Jordan Lyles to a Minor League contract.
The move will not take them out of the running for trade accusations, but does provide them with some organizational depth. That became more important as well after the Dodgers traded James Paxton to the Boston Red Sox in exchange for prospect Moises Bolivar.
In addition to acquiring starting pitching talent via trade, the team is also exploring all other avenues available to them, which could even include Rich Hill, who is currently a free agent.
For the meantime, Lyles is their only starting pitcher acquisition, but that is likely to change. He also does not present them with the impact starter they’ve been looking for.
Lyles has not pitched in a game since April 19 due to his time on the temporarily inactive list and restricted list, and thus he will need some time to build up his arm, according to Mike DiGiovanna of the L.A. Times:
Lyles, 33, will report to the team’s Arizona complex to build up endurance before reporting to a minor league affiliate.
Unless something drastic occurs, it is unlikely that Lyles plays a significant role or in any meaningful games for the Dodgers this season.
He will most likely serve as organizational depth that should only see any MLB action in case of emergency. Presumably, he should help fill out the Dodgers’ Triple-A Oklahoma City rotation that has seen multiple members receive call ups to the Majors.
The Dodgers are still showing continued interst in the top available arms, including Garrett Crochet of the Chicago White Sox and Miami Marlins’ closer Tanner Scott.
Jordan Lyles history
Lyles has been pretty well-traveled over the course of his 14 year career in the Majors.
Spliting his first six seasons evenly between the Houston Astros and Colorado Rockies, he has become a bit of a journeyman through the tail end of his career. If he were to make an appearance for the Dodgers this season, they would be the ninth team of his career.
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