While starting pitching appears to be the primary focus for the Los Angeles Dodgers at the trade deadline, they are also believed to want to add a power-hitting outfielder.
One potential option came off the board when the Tampa Bay Rays sent Randy Arozarena to the Seattle Mariners in exchange for a pair of prospects and a player to be named later.
The Dodgers were one of the teams being linked to Arozarena, whose interest in the All-Star outfielder dates back to the previous offseason when they attempted to acquire him alongside Tyler Glasnow.
The most recent trade discussions between the teams were said to be productive, but the Dodgers ultimately fell short of landing Arozarena, via Juan Toribio of MLB.com:
Over the past few weeks, the Dodgers and Rays were engaged in multiple conversations centered around outfielder Randy Arozarena. Talks heated up at times, but no deal ever came together.
With Arozarena no longer in play, the Dodgers could pivot to Luis Robert Jr. of the Chicago White Sox. However, the White Sox are reportedly placing a high price on the Cuban native, which could deter interested teams.
The Dodgers have the farm system to acquire virtually any player, so it will come down to how badly they want someone. The team is also interested in a pair of other White Sox players in Garrett Crochet and Michael Kopech, opening the door for a potential blockbuster.
However, Crochet’s recent demands of wanting to remain a starter and sign a contract extension in order to pitch in the postseason could significantly impact his chances of being traded.
Dodgers circle back to Rays
After missing out on Arozarena, the Dodgers circled back to the Rays to trade for Amed Rosario. It represented a reunion as the Dodgers acquired Rosario at the deadline last season.
Dodgers manager Brandon Gomes recently said that he would consider acquiring a third baseman as uncertainty over Max Muncy’s return this season looms, and Rosario has experience at the position.
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