Dodgers News: Ned Colletti Addresses Trade Rumors
On Wednesday, there were conflicting reports as to whether or not the Dodgers were willing to include any of the organization’s three best prospects — Joc Pederson, Corey Seager and Julio Urias — in a trade for a starting pitcher.
According to Bill Shaikin of the LA Times, general manger Ned Colletti identified pitching as an area the Dodgers have zeroed in on:
Colletti: "Pitching is what we've concentrated on the last couple weeks."
— Bill Shaikin (@BillShaikin) July 31, 2014
Colletti then refuted the notion that the Dodgers would trade any of the coveted prospects:
Colletti: "We're not in the market to trade any of the three, period. There's been no player discussed that warrants 2 of the 3."
— Bill Shaikin (@BillShaikin) July 31, 2014
As for Matt Kemp being on the trading block, Colletti also shot that down:
Colletti: "No one's ever heard me say we're shopping Matt Kemp. That's all in another world."
— Bill Shaikin (@BillShaikin) July 31, 2014
Kemp has improved in all facets of his game since June, which was when he began receive regular playing time. The outfielder, now stationed in right, hit two home runs in the Dodgers’ win over the Atlanta Braves Tuesday night and added another in the second inning of Wednesday’s game.
Along with being in the market for a starting pitcher, the Dodgers were reported as being interested in adding to their bullpen. FOX Sports’ Ken Rosenthal had the Dodgers interested in San Diego Padres reliever Joaquin Benoit.
Colletti’s comments on Wednesday pointed to there not being many relievers currently available. The Dodgers will have until 1 p.m. PT Thursday to complete a trade prior to the non-waiver deadline, then will have another month to utilize waivers as part of any deal.
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