While the Los Angeles Dodgers have already added to their roster before July 30 MLB trade deadline by acquiring Billy McKinney from the New York Mets, they are expected to continue exploring options on the pitching front.
Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman recently acknowledged that trading for pitching — either in the form of a starter or bullpen help — is a focus for the team at this season’s deadline.
L.A. since has been reported as aggressively canvasing the market for a starter. Though, one candidate they reportedly are no longer considering is the Kansas City Royals’ Danny Duffy because he has suffered a left flexor strain for a second time this season.
As for the bullpen, the Dodgers, reportedly are open to a potential trade with the Texas Rangers for Ian Kennedy, per Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic:
Add Rangers closer Ian Kennedy to the list of available pitchers the Dodgers are considering, even though he essentially has been a one-inning reliever the past three seasons, not the starter he was previously in his career.
The Dodgers previously were linked to Kennedy a handful of years ago, when he was still a starter and a member of the Royals. Kansas City was thought to be interested in packaging Kennedy with Wade Davis, which the Dodgers reportedly did not have interest in.
Kennedy agreed to a Minor League contract with the Rangers in February and he earned a spot on their Opening Day roster. The veteran right-hander has converted 15 of 16 save opportunities while pitching to a 2.59 ERA, 3.80 FIP and 1.09 WHIP in 31 games this season.
What role would Kennedy have with Dodgers?
The Dodgers have remained committed to Kenley Jansen as their closer, and already have a fallback option in Blake Treinen. Corey Knebel may factor into that picture as well if he is able to pitch well upon returning from a right lat strain.
Kennedy nevertheless would bring more experience to the bullpen and offer some insurance if Jansen falters or Knebel is unable to reach his pre-injury form.
Have you subscribed to the Dodger Blue YouTube channel? Be sure to ring the notification bell to watch player interviews, participate in shows and giveaways, and more!
