3 high-profile trade targets Dodgers need to revisit this offseason

The Los Angeles Dodgers, outside of acquiring Joey Gallo and trading Mitch White and Jake Lamb, stood pat at least year’s trade deadline. They didn’t get their hands on any of the crown jewels, such as Juan Soto or Luis Castillo. No Trea Turner-Max Scherzer blockbuster in 2022.

But they were definitely involved in a lot of talks. And they got the low-down on the asking prices at that point in time, so they probably have a good idea what some might look like this offseason on the players that weren’t moved.

Now that they’ve already lost Tyler Anderson and will likely lose Trea Turner, they’ll need to replace some top-notch talent on the pitching staff and in the lineup. Per reports, it’s more likely the Dodgers spend big on pitching and avoid this year’s class of high-priced shortstops, so if that’s the case, then the trade market might be where they do most of their damage.

It couldn’t hurt to see where things stand with these three players that were widely discussed with various teams (probably including the Dodgers) just before the Aug. 2, 2021 deadline.

The Dodgers should revisit trade talks regarding these high-profile players

3. Pablo Lopez

The Dodgers were reportedly in on Pablo Lopez at the 2022 trade deadline, but the Miami Marlins wanted a ridiculous (reported) return of Gavin Lux and THREE prospects. That’s not a knock on Lopez, either. That’s the Marlins being delusional.

The veteran right-hander just pitched a full season for the first time since debuting in 2018. He’s dealt with shoulder issues throughout his career. Then, to validate the Dodgers for not making the deal, Lopez cratered in the second half of 2022, pitching to a 4.97 ERA and 1.30 WHIP in his final 14 starts.

Even with 2.5 years of control at the time (through 2024), that was an excessive asking price. Lux, a starter at the MLB level who can play multiple positions, is controllable through 2026!

Maybe the Dodgers level with Miami this offseason and work out a deal that’s fair for everyone? Lopez is a good pitcher, but his ceiling feels like a No. 3 option in most contenders’ starting rotations. That’s not worth Lux plus three prospects.

1. Shohei Ohtani

It’s probably not possible, but it’s worth asking about! Before last year’s trade deadline when the Angels collapsed and saw their season end in early June, multiple teams reportedly called LA about Ohtani’s availability. Everyone was turned down, but that didn’t stop any rival general manager from making an offer.

The Dodgers were among those to inquire, only to be told it’ll cost them at least their top four prospects (just like everybody else). For 1.5 years of Ohtani … who will be earning $30 million in 2023? Probably worth it, but the Dodgers have other plans, and trading their top 4-6 prospects really derails their vision. And Ohtani — for as great as he is — can’t help fill out a roster in need of a third baseman, shortstop and left fielder, at the very least.

What could talks look like now that he has one year left of control at that official $30 million price tag? Well, it still seems hefty. The Athletic seems to think it’ll cost LA seven of their top 14 prospects. Would Friedman consider that when he can just wait until next year to sign him? Really doubtful.

But it can’t hurt to make the call. The Angels are in much greater need of a few, talented top prospects than they are of one more year of Ohtani. This team is still ways away from contention — barring the most impressive offseason of any team — and it’s unlikely Ohtani stays. If the price drops, you just never know where the conversation goes. And if the Dodgers can get an ace who carries one of the best lefty bats in the league, they’d be knocking out two important needs on their offseason checklist.

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