As the MLB trade deadline approaches on July 31, the Los Angeles Dodgers are prioritizing upgrades to their bullpen. The team’s relief pitchers have carried a heavy load this season, pitching more innings than any other Major League team, due in large part to frequent injuries in the starting rotation.
Although the starting pitchers have begun to recover recently, the Dodgers still face a shortage of dependable relievers and could benefit from acquiring another reliable arm to ease the strain on their bullpen.
Potential Trade Targets Include Several Notable Relievers
According to reports from Bob Nightengale of USA Today, Los Angeles has explored the possibility of acquiring several top relievers, such as Félix Bautista from the Baltimore Orioles, Ryan Helsley of the St. Louis Cardinals, David Bednar of the Pittsburgh Pirates, and Emmanuel Clase of the Cleveland Guardians. The Dodgers have also discussed options with the Minnesota Twins, targeting Jhoan Duran and Griffin Jax.
“It leaves the Dodgers scouring the market, talking with the Minnesota Twins about Jhoan Duran and Griffin Jax of the Minnesota Twins, Bautista of the Baltimore Orioles, Ryan Helsley of the St. Louis Cardinals, David Bednar of the Pittsburgh Pirates and Emmanuel Clase of the Cleveland Guardians.”
—Bob Nightengale, MLB Insider
While the Twins relievers appear on the Dodgers’ radar, it remains uncertain whether Minnesota will be sellers or buyers at the deadline. The Dodgers continue to weigh their options as the trade window narrows.
Injured Pitchers Expected to Return and Minor Moves Made
The Dodgers’ bullpen is projected to receive reinforcements from injured pitchers Blake Treinen, Brusdar Graterol, and Michael Kopech, who are all expected back before the regular season concludes. Treinen is currently making progress through a Minor League rehab assignment, but Kopech is still recovering from right knee surgery after a torn meniscus, which delays his return.
The team also made a minor acquisition last month, trading cash considerations to the Boston Red Sox for left-hander Zach Penrod. Penrod has impressed Triple-A Oklahoma City with a 2.08 ERA across four games and could soon be counted on to contribute at the Major League level due to his spot on the Dodgers’ 40-man roster.
Balancing Relief Corps Workload Could Impact Dodgers’ Season Success
The Dodgers’ pursuit of relievers like Emmanuel Clase reflects the urgent need to balance a bullpen that has shouldered extensive innings during this injury-plagued season. Improving the relief staff could stabilize late-game performance and help preserve the team’s competitiveness down the stretch. With the trade deadline imminent, the moves made now will likely shape Los Angeles’ postseason outlook.