The Los Angeles Dodgers have managed to withstand a rash of injuries this season, which most recently has included losing Mookie Betts (left hand fracture) and Yoshinobu Yamamoto (right rotator cuff) for what’s going to be an extended period.
Prior to Betts and Yamamoto getting hurt during the same weekend, other areas of the Dodgers roster were under the microscope. The outfield mix, with a possible acquisition in the middle infield, could have been their main focus due to some underperformance from multiple role players.
More recently, however, it has been speculated the Dodgers have interest in acquiring a starting pitcher at the trade deadline this season.
No matter the ultimate path, general manager Brandon Gomes doesn’t believe the string of impactful Dodgers injuries is going to have much impact on their plans at the July 30 deadline, per Jack Harris of the L.A. Times:
“I actually don’t think it meaningfully changes anything at this point,” Gomes said, with one caveat: “With the expectation that those guys are gonna be back for the postseason.”
Gomes added that many factors go into how the Dodgers will approach improving the roster with possible additions, citing the luxury of time:
“I don’t think it does at this point,” he said, adding, “It’s continuing to evaluate where we are in the division and what it looks like as far as just accumulating wins.”
The Dodgers have the formula to put a winning roster together during the regular season, and any push is likely to be with the postseason in mind. For all of their success, the Dodgers have won just one playoff game the past two years.
Gomes detailing that panic moves aren’t an expected course of action from the Dodgers front office isstatus quo for an organization that makes very calculated moves.
Where should Dodgers focus for trade deadline?
The Dodgers are in a unique spot with their current team. The belief of many is backed by their consistent performance and positive data.
Having a starting rotation with a 3.28 ERA, and second-ranked bullpen, they’re in a great spot to avoid being in the market for a top-end starter. Multiple contributors who were expected to have key roles in the Dodgers bullpen remain out, but the fill-in arms and backend have begun to solidify themselves.
Moreover, the likes of Brusdar Graterol, Joe Kelly and Ryan Brasier are expected to return this season.
On the offensive end, Betts being out does cloud the infield mix even more. A depth piece or starting-caliber shortstop to address the position could be the Dodgers’ first pivot, coupled with a strong outfield bat would be ideal.
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