The Los Angeles Dodgers are thought to be open to a wide range of possibilities leading up to the MLB trade deadline on Tuesday, with their starting rotation and position-player group said to be among the areas of focus.
But what once was a secondary need has potentially become a more pressing issue for the Dodgers amid recent bullpen struggles. Particularly with Evan Phillips regressing and getting taken out of the Dodgers closer role for the time being.
L.A. reportedly had interest in Oakland Athletics All-Star Mason Miller, but he’s unlikely to be traded. They also are among the teams connected to Miami Marlins closer Tanner Scott.
According to Jack Harris of the L.A. Times, the Dodgers’ search for potential bullpen help includes interest in Giovanny Gallegos as well:
On the pitching side, another name to watch is veteran reliever Giovanny Gallegos. The Dodgers have expressed interest in the right-hander, according to a person with knowledge of the situation but not authorized to speak publicly, after he was designated for assignment this week.
Gallegos was designated for assignment by the St. Louis Cardinals as a corresponding move to the team calling up Kyle Leahy from Triple-A Memphis.
Gallegos once was a fixture out of the Cardinals bullpen but began to struggle last year and that carried over into this season. During 21 appearances for St. Louis in 2024, the right-hander went 2-1 with one save, a 6.53 ERA, 6.34 FIP and 1.65 WHIP.
That came after the Mexican native finished with a 4.42 ERA in 56 games last season.
Gallegos’ struggles with the Cardinals this year included surrendering six home runs in just 20.2 innings pitched, and having career-worst marks with a 22.3% strikeout rate and 10.6% walk rate.
The 32-year-old missed six weeks during May and June because of a right shoulder impingement. He’s been somewhat improved since returning, however, pitching to a 2.31 ERA and 3.66 FIP while allowing batters to hit .233/.283/.395 in eight relief appearances.
Will Dodgers trade for or sign Giovanny Gallegos?
It’s possible the Dodgers acquire Gallegos in a trade with the Cardinals, but the more likely scenario is to wait for the veteran to presumably clear waivers. Particularly with the Dodgers, Cardinals and Chicago White Sox coming to terms on a three-team trade.
The Cardinals are likely to release Gallegos, who then would become a free agent and able to sign with any team.
The Cardinals signed Gallegos to a two-year, $10 million contract extension in October 2022. His deal includes a team option for 2025 valued at $6.5 million. If the option is declined, Gallegos would be paid a $500,000 buyout.
If the Dodgers or another team claims Gallegos off waivers, they would become responsible for the remaining portion of his 2024 salary — estimated to be $1.8 million — plus be responsible for the team option or buyout next year.
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