The Los Angeles Dodgers Looking to Add Bat at Trade Deadline
As the July 30 trade deadline approaches, the Los Angeles Dodgers are reportedly targeting Cardinals utility man Tommy Edman to bolster their lineup.
Top of the Lineup Solid
The Dodgers have a strong top of the lineup with Mookie Betts, Shohei Ohtani, Freddie Freeman, and Will Smith, making them one of the best top fours in MLB history. Additionally, Teoscar Hernández has been a valuable addition to the lineup this season.
Concerns with Depth
However, beyond the top hitters, there is a significant drop-off in production. With Max Muncy sidelined with an oblique injury and no timetable for return, the Dodgers have been rotating players like Gavin Lux, Chris Taylor, Miguel Rojas, Kiké Hernández, Jason Heyward, Andy Pages, and James Outman. Only Rojas and Pages have been consistently impressive at the plate.
Potential Target: Tommy Edman
According to the New York Post’s Jon Heyman, the Dodgers could target Tommy Edman if the Cardinals decide to sell. Edman, a versatile player who can play multiple positions, is currently on the injured list but is expected to return before the trade deadline.
Edman’s Value
In his sixth MLB season, Edman has a solid track record, playing over 135 games in each of the last three seasons. In 2023, he hit .248 with 13 home runs and 47 RBIs. Edman has a career slash line of .265/.319/.408 with an OPS of .726 and has proven his defensive skills by winning a Gold Glove at second base in 2021.
Adding Edman to the Dodgers lineup would provide them with a switch-hitting utility man who can play multiple positions effectively, giving the team more flexibility and depth.
Insight and Analysis
Adding a player like Tommy Edman to the Dodgers lineup would not only address the current lack of depth beyond the top of the lineup but also provide the team with a versatile player who can contribute both offensively and defensively. Edman’s ability to play multiple positions and provide a switch-hitting option would give the Dodgers more options in their lineup construction and could prove to be a valuable asset as they push towards the postseason.
