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.

2. Ian Happ

Dodgers fans will still stand by the take that the team should’ve paid more to get Ian Happ instead of trying to get lucky with Joey Gallo, who will certainly not be returning after his poor stint in LA. He didn’t even get a playoff at-bat.

Meanwhile, Happ, who’s entering the final year of his arbitration eligibility, doesn’t really fit into the Cubs’ long-term plans. What’s Chicago even doing, anyway? Their marquee signing last offseason was Marcus Stroman.

There were loose mentions of the Dodgers being connected to Happ before the trade deadline solely because of their left field situation and need for a lefty power bat, as Cody Bellinger and Max Muncy continued to crater.

Now, with Happ projected to make $11 million in 2023 and the Cubs in need of more assets to further their rebuild, the Dodgers should revisit this possibility. Joey Gallo’s gone, Trayce Thompson probably isn’t a long-term answer, and Chris Taylor will be playing a good amount of his games in the infield in 2023 (if things remain as is on the position side).

Happ’s price in trade talks will be cheaper because he has less control attached now. It’s worth a shot, especially since Andrew Benintendi and Brandon Nimmo will be pricey and aren’t exactly the Dodgers’ cup of tea.