Dodgers News: LA Exec Admits Trade Deadline Slower Than Usual To Take Shape
The Dodgers have fielded a roster with more rookies than expected this season, with Emmet Sheehan and Bobby Miller working as consistent starting pitchers and James Outman and Miguel Vargas, until his recent demotion, playing significant roles on the Dodger offense.
With the Aug. 1 trade deadline just over two weeks away, the Dodgers, led by President of Baseball Operations Andrew Friedman, must decide whether they trust their rookies, particularly their pitchers, to get them through the postseason.
With Walker Buehler aiming to return in September and other injured Dodger pitchers potentially available before the postseason, LA could have the talent they need to reach a World Series without having to trade away any top prospects for an elite, plug-and-play starter.
Even if the Dodgers were looking to buy a starting pitcher or offensive weapon, it seems that the 2023 trade deadline could be a victim of a seller’s market.
“The clouded playoff situations around the league have made it challenging to get into much substance on the trade front at this point. Most are taking a wait-and-see approach after the All-Star break and see where they’re at,” Friedman said.
(Via The Orange County Register)
With the playoff format expanding from 10 to 12 teams last year, more teams could view themselves as playoff contenders by the deadline. Additionally, with tight races in both Central divisions among teams that would potentially be sellers if relocated to a different, less competitive division, even more teams might view themselves as capable of making a run at the postseason.
“I think the new (postseason) rules definitely enhance that, but I think this year even within those new rules is especially harder,” Friedman said. “Just because of the way it’s played out (in various divisions).”
(Via The Orange County Register)
So for fans eager to see the Dodgers make aggressive moves right after the All-Star break, Friedman is practicing a patient approach.
“But, again, so much of it is going to be who’s available. … It’s great to want something, but if it’s not available or it doesn’t line up, that doesn’t do us much good,” Friedman said.
Via The Orange County Register)
The second half of the season begins Friday afternoon, and with it might come more clarity around a murky trade deadline.
Photo Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
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