White Sox Are Scouting Dodgers, Could a Big Trade Be Coming?
As the July 30 trade deadline nears, the White Sox directed their top scouts’ attention to the farm systems of the Padres, Mariners, and Dodgers, sources informed on the scouts’ activities told The Athletic. Conversely, all three contenders have expressed an interest in trading for several White Sox players.
While the scouting activity of the White Sox might just be an insight into the trade plans for Chicago, this is not the first time the White Sox have been scouting other teams’ farm systems. In March, it was reported the White Sox sent scouts to see the Padres‘ prospects. The Dylan Cease trade was consummated not long thereafter.
The Padres, Mariners, and Dodgers all have prospects who could help Chicago’s rebuilding efforts.
The Dodgers, meanwhile, reportedly have their eyes set on three White Sox trade targets.
Outfielder Luis Robert Jr. offers a strong bat that could help the Dodgers bolster the bottom of their lineup. Despite his talent (38 home runs in 145 games last season), the 26-year-old Cuban has made five appearances on the injured list in five major league seasons. Read a further analysis of Robert Jr. as a potential trade target here.
On the mound, left-handed pitcher Garrett Crochet is an appealing trade target for the Dodgers. In his most recent start against the Dodgers on June 24, he struck out six batters and held Los Angeles scoreless for 5.2 innings. Crochet has a 3.05 ERA and ranks second across the league, behind Dodgers pitcher Tyler Glasnow, in strikeouts (130). Dodgers Nation’s Doug McKain broke down all things regarding a Crochet trade here.
In the infield, shortstop Paul DeJong is reportedly catching the attention of the Dodgers’ front office. His expiring contract makes him a cost-effective trade option. DeJong also ranks second among all qualified shortstops in home runs (14). When he is not making contact with the ball, DeJong struggles with a high strikeout rate and low walk rate. McKain explained why DeJong is a sensible trade target for the Dodgers here.
The Dodgers often aim for package deals when it comes to making trades near the deadline. Ideally, the Dodgers would be able line up on more than one of their White Sox targets by the end of July. Easier said than done, however: the Padres and Mariners could be targeting one or more of the same players.
Photo Credit: Matt Marton-USA TODAY Sports
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I expect if they sign DeJong they will have to DFA Taylor. I’m not sure it is an upgrade, as bad as Taylor has been this season.
After the 3 game series in Chicago, I’m not sure a trade would be a good idea. I was not impressed with any of the Sox potential trade players.
I am all in on Crochet, a good pitcher on a bad team with an owner who at this stage of his life is not going to overpay for any pricey veterans, thus cheating his fans out of a winning team. We don;t need DeJong as Rojas is playing great and the cost of DeJong in a decent prospect isn’t worth it for what Reinsdorf will demand. If we can get Robert at a reasonable price then fine but somebody who has been a regular on the IL is not someone to build your team around.
Most Dodger fans are expecting a trade (or trades) to strengthen the infield and a bat for the outfield. I am one of them. However, we all are anxious for our pitchers to return from the injured list. Again, I am one of them. Has anyone considered the possibility that we may NOT get Kershaw and Yamamota back? Also, is Buehler, Miller, May, Graterol, Brasier, Grove, Kelly, Sheehan and who knows goes on the IL, going to be productive? Most are probable or at least hopeful. We keep hearing how Buehler and Miller have to work their way back. Will they? I certainly hope so but until they do ………..