With the MLB trade deadline just 17 days away, the Dodgers are among eight teams showing interest in Chicago White Sox outfielder Luis Robert Jr., according to Jon Heyman of the New York Post. Despite Robert’s recent struggles at the plate, the Dodgers are weighing a potential trade as they assess options to strengthen their lineup amid an unexpected slump.
Dodgers Face Unusual Offensive Challenges in July
Unlike past seasons where the Dodgers aggressively pursued trades to boost their roster, this July they find themselves focusing on maintaining the core they built in the offseason. The team’s offense has dipped, ranking 20th in team OPS for the month, which has put pressure on management to consider adjustments. If needed, the Dodgers might seek to make changes to their hitting lineup to regain momentum.
Luis Robert Jr.’s Current Performance and Contract Status
Luis Robert Jr. is enduring a career-low stretch, batting .190/.275/.325 with nine home runs and a 65 wRC+ in 79 games this season. Although his production has declined sharply, he remains a valuable asset with a $20 million team option for 2026. Notably, Robert’s performance peaked two seasons ago when he hit 38 home runs and ranked 12th in AL MVP voting.
Updates on Roki Sasaki and Dodgers’ Pitching Staff
Concerns about Roki Sasaki‘s 2025 season had intensified after his throwing program was paused in mid-June. However, Sasaki threw a bullpen session earlier this week and is scheduled for another session on Monday, suggesting a return could be imminent. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts told reporters that the team is targeting a late August comeback for Sasaki.
“He threw one (bullpen session) two days ago, and touched 90, which was great,”
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said.
“So it’s coming. The bullpens, the lives (live batting practice), then to get out on assignment. So, obviously, sticking to kind of a late August date is where we’re at.”
Promising Prospects: Brady Ebel’s First-Round Draft Selection
Dodgers third base coach Dino Ebel’s son, Brady, was selected 32nd overall by the Milwaukee Brewers in the first round of the MLB draft. Brady is the third player from Corona High School picked in this year’s first round, joining former teammates Seth Hernandez, drafted sixth by the Pittsburgh Pirates, and Billy Carlson, taken 10th by the White Sox. Jack Harris of the Los Angeles Times recounted Brady Ebel’s rise from a childhood fan at Dodger Stadium to a top draft pick, highlighting his impressive journey to professional baseball.
Implications Moving Forward
The Dodgers’ interest in Luis Robert Jr. reflects their willingness to explore options to address their offensive struggles ahead of the deadline, despite his current slump. Roki Sasaki’s anticipated return adds optimism to their pitching staff, potentially bolstering the team’s depth late in the season. Additionally, the development of prospects like Brady Ebel signals continued investment in the franchise’s future. How these factors unfold will be critical as the Dodgers aim to remain competitive this summer.