The Los Angeles Dodgers look built for another deep October run. With a lineup headlined by Shohei Ohtani, Mookie Betts, and Freddie Freeman, expectations remain sky-high. Still, even the most complete teams have flaws, and for the Dodgers, left field remains a glaring question mark.
Michael Conforto, signed to provide veteran depth, has struggled mightily. Through 51 starts, he’s slashing just .168/.314/.275, and his production has fallen well short of expectations. Despite this, the front office is showing patience. GM Brandon Gomes recently voiced support for Conforto, noting confidence in the outfielder’s ability to bounce back, especially against right-handed pitching.
Still, the trade market offers tempting alternatives—chief among them, Boston’s Jarren Duran. The 28-year-old outfielder is hitting .274 with four home runs, 35 RBIs, and a .756 OPS. His speed, defense, and energy would be an immediate upgrade, particularly given his MLB-leading triples and ability to disrupt games from the leadoff spot.
Los Angeles Dodgers at a Crossroads: Upgrade Left Field or Trust in Conforto’s Turnaround?
Bleacher Report’s Zachary D. Rymer recently proposed a bold trade: the Dodgers receive Duran in exchange for top prospects Dalton Rushing, Jackson Ferris, and Emil Morales. From Boston’s perspective, the move would clear space for rising star Roman Anthony while acquiring three high-upside talents. For L.A., it would address a current need—but at a steep cost.
The Dodgers have already explored deals for outfielders, reportedly tabling talks with the White Sox over Luis Robert Jr. when the price tag became too rich. The Duran deal would similarly gut the farm system. And yet, the upside is clear: pairing Duran with Tommy Edman and Teoscar Hernández in the outfield would give the Dodgers a dynamic trio heading into October.
Still, L.A. seems inclined to wait. Conforto’s recent RBI single in a comeback win over the Mets may be a turning point, and the front office appears content to let him work through his struggles. The Dodgers aren’t short on firepower, and they may view Duran as more of a luxury than a necessity.
As the deadline approaches, the question remains: do the Dodgers bet on upside now, or continue trusting the players already in-house? Whatever path they choose will have ripple effects well beyond the 2025 season.