The Los Angeles Dodgers front office reportedly had been gaining optimism over a potential Juan Soto trade, but the team needs to look elsewhere at the deadline as the San Diego Padres reached an agreement with the Washington Nationals.
Even as the Dodgers appeared to be plenty involved in Soto trade negotiations, they have been linked to several other players. Among them was Chicago Cubs utilityman Ian Happ, and Miami Marlins pitchers Anthony Bass and Pablo López.
Bass is no longer an option, however, as Miami has agreed to include him in a trade with the Toronto Blue Jays.
Meanwhile, the Dodgers are among the teams interested in a trade for Happ and Daniel Robertson, according to Mark Feinsand of MLB.com:
With Juan Soto seemingly headed to San Diego, the Dodgers are looking at Ian Happ and David Robertson of the Cubs, per sources. Plenty of competition for both players, however. Mets said to be interested in Robertson and Willson Contreras, as well
— Mark Feinsand (@Feinsand) August 2, 2022
The Cubs are expected to be aggressive sellers by the 3 p.m. PT trade deadline on Tuesday, and already aligned with the Dodgers on a deal that sent Chris Martin to L.A. for Zach McKinstry.
Happ fits the versatility profile the Dodgers value and is under team control through the 2023 season. Robertson would help shore up a bullpen that features plenty of depth but has some injury concerns.
The veteran relief pitcher is 3-0 with 14 saves, a 2.23 ERA, 3.51 FIP and 1.04 WHIP over 36 appearances this season. Robertson is due to become a free agent at the end of the season.
Dodgers have history of interest in David Robertson
The Dodgers’ interest in Robertson dates back to 2016 trade deadline, when he was a closer for the Chicago White Sox. They also were among the teams connected to him prior to the 2019 season, when Robertson ultimately signed with the Philadelphia Phillies.
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