Analysis of the Dodgers' moves before the trade deadline: Strengthening the bullpen is the top priority

With less than a week until the trade deadline next week, the market remains quiet, but a domino effect could trigger at any moment. The Dodgers have not publicly disclosed specific needs (similar to most teams at the end of the season), but their poor performance of 11 losses in the last 15 games highlights areas that urgently need reinforcement.

"The situation will become clearer in the coming days," said General Manager Brandon Gomes, "the current stance remains unchanged: we still need to bring in immediate help."

Core issues identified: What are the Dodgers' needs?

In summary: Upgrading the bullpen is a priority, followed by deepening the batting lineup. Some injured players will gradually return: Blake Treinen is expected to come back soon, Michael Kopech will rejoin the team in late August, and Brusdar Graterol may return in September. Tanner Scott's injury is not at its worst, but his return date is uncertain.

In terms of the batting lineup, Max Muncy's return in the next two weeks could boost the offense, but more importantly, struggling key players need to find their form. Freddie Freeman and Mookie Betts should have room for improvement, while Michael Conforto's situation is unpredictable—despite his .222 batting average on balls in play (BABIP) being significantly lower than the league average of .296, indicating bad luck.

Potential targets for reinforcement?

The most pressing need: a high-leverage right-handed reliever. Many teams are in a state of indecision regarding buying or selling, and quality options have yet to become clear. Suitable potential free agents include Ryan Helsley of the Cardinals and Kyle Finnegan of the Nationals; Pete Fairbanks of the Rays is also worth monitoring (holding a team option for 2026, not just a short-term rental).

Controllable pitchers such as Jhoan Duran from the Twins and Griffin Jax, as well as Emmanuel Clase from the Guardians, are also rumored to be available for trade. Given that the Dodgers are reluctant to make high-priced acquisitions in July, such operations are less likely. However, if a suitable opportunity arises, the team will act decisively.

What trade assets are available?

The Dodgers' farm system ranks among the best in the majors, with six players on the MLB Top 100 prospects list, but most top prospects are at least two years away from the majors. If the other party seeks immediate help, the depth of high-level minor league pitchers is the biggest asset: Bobby Miller, Landon Knack, and Justin Wrobleski, among others with major league experience, all hold trade value.

Is there a possibility for two-way operations?

Dustin May has become a potential trade chip (he will be a free agent at the end of the season, and his bullpen value is sought after by multiple teams), but trading him carries significant risk— the Dodgers themselves may need his contributions.

The rotation is gradually recovering, but the bullpen's recovery is slow. Recent experience shows that it is unwise to overly rely on the pitching staff to maintain health through the finish. The 40-man roster will face adjustment pressure due to the return of players from the 60-day injured list during the offseason, but last year's strained pitching staff still contributed to the championship, and this year cannot afford any losses.