The Los Angeles Dodgers, currently leading the National League West with one of baseball’s best records this season, are contemplating significant roster moves before the upcoming trade deadline. With Shohei Ohtani approaching a return to the starting rotation and Blake Snell back from injury, the team may need to adjust its pitching staff to maintain its competitive edge.
The Dodgers’ rotation is expected to strengthen as Snell rejoins the lineup, potentially forcing the team to make room by trading a starting pitcher. Simultaneously, mounting pressure after the All-Star break to improve offensive production or bolster the bullpen adds urgency to these decisions. Amidst this shuffle, six-year right-hander Dustin May’s future with the Dodgers is increasingly in question.
Trade Rumors Surround Dustin May Ahead of Deadline
Reports have surfaced suggesting Dustin May could be traded before Thursday’s 3 p.m. P.T. deadline, especially as he is slated to become a free agent after the 2025 season. May seemed unfazed by the speculation, having grown accustomed to such rumors throughout his rise as a prominent pitching prospect.
“Shocker. It’s there every year. It’s not anything new,”
—Dustin May, Pitcher
Interest in May has intensified recently, with several teams increasing scouting efforts, anticipating his availability. Despite a disappointing recent start—where he allowed four runs over five innings in a loss to the Boston Red Sox—May’s potential trade value remains uncertain due to inconsistency and injury history.
Shift from Starter to Bullpen Role as Ohtani Returns
After missing the entire previous season because of injury, May has made 18 starts this year but has struggled with a 4.85 ERA. In light of Shohei Ohtani’s impending rotation role and the desire to optimize the pitching staff, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts announced that May will transition to the bullpen. Starting Friday against the Tampa Bay Rays, he will serve as a multi-inning reliever, supplementing the Dodgers’ bullpen depth.
Recently, May has filled a bulk reliever role behind Ohtani, signaling the team’s gradual move away from utilizing him as a starter. This strategic adjustment reflects the Dodgers’ attempt to integrate Ohtani’s pitching strength while managing roster flexibility ahead of the crucial stretch of the season.
Implications for the Dodgers’ Playoff Aspirations
These roster decisions carry significant weight as the Dodgers aim to sustain their lead in the competitive National League West division. Integrating Shohei Ohtani back into the rotation could provide the club with a valuable boost on the mound, but doing so may require parting with established pitchers like Dustin May. The final moves before the trade deadline will likely shape the team’s bullpen composition and starting rotation depth, influencing their postseason trajectory.
Fans and analysts await the outcome of these developments, which will reveal whether May remains with Los Angeles or moves on to another team seeking to strengthen its pitching staff. Meanwhile, the Dodgers continue to navigate the balancing act of maximizing talent while positioning themselves for a deep playoff run.