Dodgers Rumors: Top MLB Closer Linked to LA Ahead of Trade Deadline

Experts believe that the Dodgers could be in the running to acquire one of the best closers in baseball before the trade deadline.

St. Louis Cardinals pitcher Jordan Hicks has been linked to the Dodgers as a trade target for LA. According to MLB.com, the 26-year-old will be on the move at the deadline as the Cardinals look to be sellers.

Since becoming the official closer for St. Louis, Hicks has been dominant. In 10 appearances, he has closed seven games with a 1.98 ERA. In those 10 games, he has also struck out 13 batters and held opponents to a .525 OPS.

The Dodgers need someone like Hicks if they want to make a run in the postseason. The team has had one of the worst bullpens in baseball this year. Most of the bigger issues, however, seem to be behind them. Still, the team is currently 24th in the league with a 4.39 ERA. The only consistently reliable pitcher in the Dodgers bullpen has been Evan Phillips who has posted a 2.55 ERA in 37 games.

If the Dodgers could get a dominant relief pitcher like Hicks, the bullpen will be more consistent than it has been. On the season, Hicks has struck out 55 batters in 36.2 innings as a middle reliever.

The Dodgers could also acquire Hicks for a bargain. The right-hander is on a one-year deal worth less than $1 million. He would likely only be with the Dodgers for the playoff run and find somewhere else to play next season.

Getting a relief pitcher like Hicks is going to be necessary for the Dodgers if they are going to go deep in the playoffs.

Photo Credit: Joe Puetz-USA TODAY Sports

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