The Los Angeles Dodgers appear poised to explore trade opportunities as the Major League Baseball trade deadline approaches, with team president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman signaling interest in acquiring established star players. On Wednesday, Friedman indicated that the Dodgers would likely initiate talks with the Detroit Tigers regarding reigning American League Cy Young Award winner Tarik Skubal.
“There just aren’t that many star-level players in the game,” Friedman said, emphasizing the team's willingness to engage whenever such players become available. He highlighted the strength of the Dodgers’ farm system and player development structure, which provides the flexibility to pursue high-profile trades without immediate pressure to fill specific roster gaps.
The Dodgers, who currently hold a 68-40 record, have maintained an improving pitching staff, allowing them to adopt a more selective and opportunistic approach in the trade market. Friedman declined to speculate on the likelihood of a deal before the August 3 deadline, acknowledging the inherent unpredictability in such negotiations.
Recent team moves included activating closer Edwin Díaz, who returned from elbow surgery and secured a save in his first appearance back during the Dodgers’ 4-2 victory over the Seattle Mariners Wednesday. Concurrently, left-handed pitcher Charlie Barnes was designated for assignment. Meanwhile, right-hander Tyler Glasnow and reliever Blake Treinen continue to recover from injuries, both participating in light bullpen sessions as they progress toward potential returns.
At the minor league level, left-handed pitcher Blake Snell recently made a promising rehab start following arthroscopic elbow surgery, though the Dodgers remain in discussions regarding his next steps before reintegration into the major league roster. Two-way player Shohei Ohtani’s recovery from a lingering knee injury continues to present uncertainty. The team initially expected Ohtani to return to the pitching rotation shortly after the All-Star break, but his rehabilitation has been slower than hoped, with a stalled throwing program despite receiving a lubricating injection. Ohtani’s recent on-field performance has reflected ongoing challenges, as his earned run average in his last four starts rose to 4.38 compared to 0.74 in his first ten.
Friedman commented on the situation with Skubal, noting that while the Tigers’ struggles might prompt them to sell before the deadline, the Dodgers remain careful in their trade approach. He dismissed the idea that trades are primarily made to block rivals, citing the complexity of orchestrating deals as a significant factor.
“We feel really good about the talent base we have in place, not just on field but also how the group meshes together,” Friedman said. “Like always, we’re going to be thoughtful and careful about what we potentially add to that dynamic.”
On the mound Wednesday, left-hander Eric Lauer delivered his best outing in a Dodgers uniform, pitching six scoreless innings against the Mariners while allowing only four baserunners. Since being acquired midseason from the Toronto Blue Jays, Lauer has contributed to nine consecutive wins in starts, providing valuable rotation depth as the Dodgers prepare for the final stretch of the season.