5 potential trade targets that could seriously alter Dodgers' 2023 season

Aroldis Chapman

Aroldis Chapman would have the smallest impact of anyone on this list, but he might be the most likely trade target for the Dodgers this season. The Dodgers need bullpen help badly, especially of the left-handed variety, as Alex Vesia has been a disaster thus far this season.

It looked like the days of Chapman being an above-average reliever were over. His velocity was down in New York, and it got so bad (and he got so frosty) that he was not included on the postseason roster. However, his velocity has suddenly returned in Kansas City, and he has pitched well to this point.

Chapman has not allowed single run in his first eight appearances for the Royals this season. He has struck out 15 batters in eight innings of work and is sporting a 0.500 WHIP. His days as an elite closer are probably over, but thus far, he is proving that he can be a valuable left-handed arm out of the bullpen.

The Dodgers almost traded for Chapman when he was with the Cincinnati Reds, so there is some familiarity there with the front office. Eight years removed from that near-trade, the Dodgers may come full circle and add one of the most prolific relievers of this generation.

Kansas City definitely should have every intent on trading Chapman, as long as there is a market this season. The Royals are not going anywhere this year and signed him on a one-year flier, probably in the hopes of him rebounding so he could have a trade market.

He is the most available player on this list, and he perfectly fits a need that the Dodgers have. Don't be shocked if Chapman is wearing Dodger Blue by August 1.