The Los Angeles Dodgers have the best record in the National League and are once again viewed as legitimate World Series contenders. But even with a deep, star-studded roster, the front office knows reinforcements are needed—particularly in the bullpen.
With the MLB trade deadline looming on July 31, The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal offers a detailed look into what Andrew Friedman’s front office is planning—and, just as importantly, what it isn’t.
Dustin May Floated as Trade Candidate—But With Caveats
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One intriguing possibility being considered, according to Rosenthal, is trading right-hander Dustin May. May has logged the second-most innings on the team this season but owns a 4.73 ERA. He could be bumped from the starting rotation when Blake Snell returns from injury, which opens the door for the Dodgers to view him as a potential trade chip—particularly for bullpen help.
May also recently showed potential as a multi-inning reliever when he worked behind Shohei Ohtani in a “bulk” role. Manager Dave Roberts labeled the pairing a “one-off,” but it’s easy to imagine the Dodgers using May creatively down the stretch if he isn’t dealt.
Still, moving May would come with risk. As Rosenthal points out, the Dodgers’ ongoing health issues in the rotation might make them hesitant to trade away reliable innings—especially with Roki Sasaki, Snell, and others still working back to full strength.
Farm System Depth Gives Dodgers Leverage Ahead On MLB Trade Deadline
If the Dodgers choose not to part with May, they could tap into one of MLB’s deepest farm systems. The Athletic’s Keith Law ranked the Dodgers’ system third in baseball before the season, and several of their prospects are drawing interest across the league.
However, Rosenthal reports that Los Angeles is “not inclined” to deal top prospects such as catcher Dalton Rushing or shortstop Alex Freeland. Rushing, 24, was recently called up to replace Austin Barnes and is seen as a potential long-term piece in Los Angeles—possibly even a replacement for Michael Conforto in left field next season.
While Rushing’s early returns in the majors (.586 OPS, 52.4% K rate) have been uneven, the Dodgers clearly value his upside. MLB.com currently ranks him as the No. 15 overall prospect in baseball.
Rosenthal also highlighted a group of High-A and Low-A prospects the Dodgers are more likely to keep, including outfielders Josue De Paula and Zyhir Hope, both of whom possess high ceilings.
Still, there is ample prospect depth to draw from. Shortstops Kellon Lindsey and Emil Morales, outfielders Eduardo Quintero, Ching-Hsien Ko, and Mike Sirota, and third baseman Chase Harlan all stand out as potential trade chips.
Dodgers Will Be Selective, Not Desperate
Rosenthal added that Los Angeles deliberately structured its offseason moves to avoid being cornered at the deadline. After spending heavily in the winter, including the additions of Ohtani, Yamamoto, and Glasnow, the Dodgers don’t appear interested in overpaying in July unless a clear impact addition presents itself.
The Dodgers’ offense remains elite, and the club expects reinforcements in the rotation—including Snell and Sasaki—over the next several weeks. But with Tanner Scott sidelined and multiple contenders—including the Yankees and Phillies—also searching for bullpen help, the competition will be stiff.
Several reports have connected the Dodgers to Minnesota’s Jhoan Duran, Baltimore’s Felix Bautista, St. Louis’ Ryan Helsley, Pittsburgh’s David Bednar, and Cleveland’s Emmanuel Clase, among others.
Friedman and his front office have the prospect capital and payroll flexibility to act decisively, but for now, the message is clear: LA is buying—but not at any cost.