Key Takeaways:
– The Los Angeles Dodgers are potentially eyeing a trade for Toronto Blue Jays shortstop, Bo Bichette.
– Possible swap stipulates that Dodgers would offer INF Gavin Lux, catcher Diego Cartaya, and RHP Payton Martin.
– Despite his rough start in 2024, Bichette’s past performance positions him as a valuable addition.
– Even though shortstop isn’t a top priority for the Dodgers, the upcoming trade deadline could cast significant changes.
Dodgers Might Acquire Bo Bichette
Renowned for their commanding 47-31 track record, the LA Dodgers could soon welcome a new star to their ranks. Bo Bichette, the Toronto Blue Jays’ $33.6M shortstop, might find himself heading to Hollywood if a proposed trade comes to fruition.
Robbie Hyde, in a recent live stream on Bleacher Report, proposed that the Dodgers receive Bichette in exchange for Gavin Lux, Diego Cartaya, and Payton Martin. With Cartaya and Martin holding seventh and ninth places respectively in the Dodgers’ top-10 prospect list according to MLB.com, this could be a fair trade. Despite missing all of 2023 due to injury, Lux has hit .210/.258/.280 with one home run, 17 RBI, and 21 runs scored this season.
Bichette’s Potential Role with the Dodgers
Amid the absence of Mookie Betts, who fractured his hand recently, the Dodgers have been relying on Miguel Rojas and Kike Hernandez. Bichette’s addition could offer a much-needed upgrade. Though currently nursing a right calf strain, Bichette’s proven track record, including two All-Star Game appearances, could fill Betts’ gap impressively.
Bichette has shown consistent performance from 2021 to 2023. His average included 24 homers, 34 doubles, 89 RBI, and 94 runs scored across those three seasons. Additionally, his contract extends through 2025, promising stability beyond a half-season rental.
Will Dodgers Secure Bichette?
LA Dodgers’ impressive lead in the NL West doesn’t overshadow their struggle with injuries. Core players including Max Muncy, Walker Buehler, and Yoshinobu Yamamoto have been added to the expanding injured list. Yet, Dodgers’ General Manager, Brandon Gomes, expressed comfort with Rojas and Hernandez covering shortstop until Betts recovers.
However, Sirius XM’s Jim Bowden believes that the Dodgers will look at other options. “Andrew Friedman… is going to get a starter, a reliever, and an outfielder by July 30,” he said. While a shortstop upgrade isn’t top of mind, the trade deadline about five weeks away could switch things up.
With a shifting landscape ahead, it’s worth watching how the Dodgers navigate the upcoming trade deadline. Despite the possible comfort with their current player pool, evolving market conditions and other team decisions could influence the Dodgers’ strategic choices. Bichette’s potential acquisition could just be the fresh strategy that elevates their game even further. With their notable track record, the LA Dodgers definitely know how to transform challenges into grand slams.