Key Takeaways:
* LA Dodgers are maintaining a strong stance in the NL West with a current 9-3 run.
* Despite injuries to key players, the team is performing admirably with impressive scoring and pitching statistics.
* However, a weak outfield remains a concern which could be addressed as the MLB trade deadline approaches.
* The Dodgers are considering options, including a potential trade for Tampa Bay player Randy Arozarena or making a massive move for Bo Bichette.
The Los Angeles Dodgers Show Formidable Performance
Despite having several key players out with injuries, the Los Angeles Dodgers have notched an impressive run. The team has maintained a solid grip on the NL West lead with a stellar 9-3 winning streak in their last 12 games and a perfect 3-1 record in their past few series. Recent matches were against formidable competitors such as the Rockies, Angels, and the White Sox.
The Dodgers’ Offense and Defense Sparkle
On the offensive front, the Los Angeles-based team is dominating, with an average of 5.0 runs per match. The 12-game spell saw the team hit 18 homers with an impressive OPS of .771. At the same time, on the defensive side, the Dodgers are boasting a strong pitching staff, clocking 98 strikeouts in the last 108 innings. The team also secured a commendable 3.23 ERA, signifying strong defensive capabilities, despite the injuries of pitchers Clayton Kershaw, Michael Grove, Walker Buehler, among others.
Overcoming Weak Spots
However, every team has its Achilles heel. For the Dodgers, it’s the outfield where there is room for improvement, as they near the MLB trade deadline. ESPN’s baseball analyst, Jeff Passan, states that there could be a perfect solution down in Tampa. Struggling outfielder Randy Arozarena might be a golden opportunity for the Dodgers, despite having a tough season.
Potential High-Profile Trade
Another major move the Dodgers might consider is making a play for Blue Jays star shortstop Bo Bichette. This move could allow Mookie Betts to move back to the outfield, creating a formidable lineup. This type of trade, though highly impactful, could also be costly.
The Arozarena Factor
As per Passan, Arozarena seems to be a feasible choice for the Dodgers. Although he has been underperforming this season, joining a lineup with Betts, Hernandez, Shohei Ohtani, Freddie Freeman, and Will Smith might boost his gameplay.
Rough Patch for Arozarena
Hoping that a change in environment will spark a turnaround for Arozarena might be a gamble, given his recent form. His lackluster showings have depressed his batting to .198 with a .303 on-base percentage and a .344 slugging percentage. However, signs of recovery have started to surface in June, as Arozarena has been hitting .279 with a .425 on-base percentage in 22 games.
The Dodgers’ Outfield Conundrum
With two of the least efficient outfield positions in baseball this season, the Dodgers could certainly use an upgrade. Their center field has been missing the mark, with a .191 batting average, ranking second-worst in the MLB. Even the left field has failed to impress, with a .214 batting average and an OPS of .650, ranking seventh-worst. The potential addition of Arozarena could be the solution the Dodgers have been looking for, turning their outfield weakness into strength. It all comes down to how the trade plays out.
As the MLB trade deadline nears, the Dodgers have important decisions to make. Here’s hoping these decisions propel them further on their path to World Series contention.