Although the Los Angeles Dodgers currently boast the best record in Major League Baseball, president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman rarely stands pat as the trade deadline approaches.
True to form, Friedman and the front office have already been active behind the scenes. Earlier this year, the Dodgers reportedly explored a trade with the Chicago White Sox for center fielder Luis Robert Jr., according to multiple sources. The proposed package included outfielder James Outman and a top prospect. Talks, however, stalled last month when Robert was struggling at the plate, hitting just .178 with one home run, four RBIs, and a .536 OPS.
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Now, trade interest in Robert appears to be picking up again as his bat heats up. According to USA Today’s Bob Nightengale, the New York Mets have inquired about Robert, and the White Sox are eyeing top Mets pitching prospect Blake Tidwell as a potential return.
New York, who own a strong 26–15 record, are keeping pace with LA in the National League and could be on a postseason collision course with them once again—just as they were in last October’s NL Championship Series.
Even with their loaded roster, LA is facing increasing pressure to shore up their outfield depth. Recent injuries to Teoscar Hernández and Tommy Edman have thinned the rotation, opening the door for a potential midseason addition.
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As Robert’s trade stock rises, the Dodgers may circle back to negotiations, particularly if other outfield options prove elusive. But recent reports suggest Los Angeles is also looking beyond the deadline, with Houston Astros star Kyle Tucker emerging as a top free-agent target this winter.
Meanwhile, the Dodgers’ internal options are also under scrutiny. Outfielder James Outman—once part of the proposed Robert deal—has endured a sophomore slump, adding urgency to the team’s search for reinforcements.
While no deal is imminent, history shows Friedman is unlikely to stand still if an opportunity to upgrade presents itself.