The Los Angeles Dodgers are absolutely locked in, making big moves ahead of the MLB trade deadline, all to chase down a historic World Series three-peat. I mean, back-to-back titles in 2024 and 2025? That’s wild! Manager Dave Roberts and superstar Shohei Ohtani have been leading the charge, and if they pull off a third straight, they’d join the New York Yankees and the Athletics as the only franchises to ever do it. Talk about making history!
Who They’re Eyeing For That Championship Push
Everyone in MLB has been talking about the Dodgers swooping in for Detroit Tigers pitcher Tarik Skubal, a name that’s been linked to them since December. They even snagged Kyle Tucker in free agency back in January after he was floated as a potential target. So, yeah, the Dodgers aren’t messing around. They want to add a 10th championship to that trophy case, and they’re looking at some serious talent to get there.
First up on their hit list is Luis Arraez, the second baseman for the Giants. This guy is the definition of a deadline dream: a three-time batting champ, having a career year on an expiring contract, playing for a team that isn’t exactly lighting the world on fire. He’s been Gold Glove caliber at second this year, piled up 3.1 WAR, and boasts a 136 adjusted OPS, even with only four homers. He might not want to leave second base, but you gotta think his tune changes if he’s suddenly battling for a ring. Then there’s Tyler Stephenson, the Reds’ catcher. He’s a pending free agent whose team is selling. He’s only got six homers and an 88 adjusted OPS this season, but he did hit 19 last year. He’d definitely bring a bigger bat than your typical catcher.
Arms Race For Dodger Blue
On the pitching side, the Dodgers have a few names on their radar. Robbie Ray, another Giants pitcher, is someone they’re considering. It’s been five years since he won the AL Cy Young, and his strikeouts per nine innings are down to 7.6, but he just posted a 3.38 first-half ERA and threw two eight-scoreless-inning starts. Plus, his terrible 41-55 team went 12-7 in his starts! He’s a perfect lefty rental. Then there’s Michael Wacha from the Royals. The guy’s having an All-Star season with a 1.19 WHIP and goes deep into games. If it wasn’t for his limited no-trade protection, he’d be at the top of the list, especially since he’s guaranteed a reasonable $15 million in 2027 with the Royals sitting at 38-59.
In the bullpen, Luke Weaver from the Mets has been lights out since June 1, giving up just two hits and zero earned runs across 14 appearances, with an insane 19-3 strikeout-to-walk ratio. He even closed out the 2024 World Series for the Yankees! He’s a smart pick at $8 million this year and $11 million next. Mason Miller of the Padres is another name, but this one is tricky. He’s the most dominant closer in baseball, but the Padres are close to a wild card spot and a club sale, so trading him would be a tough look. Still, AJ Preller usually has a plan, and Miller would fetch a massive return.
The trade deadline is right around the corner, and the Dodgers are clearly ready to go all-in for that three-peat. Who do you think they’re going to snag?
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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