Dodgers' Deadline Decisions
Dodgers' Friedman Addresses Ohtani Knee Injury, Confirms Skubal Trade Interest
Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman confirmed Tuesday that Los Angeles will reach out to the Detroit Tigers about reigning AL Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal ahead of the trade deadline, according to Sacramento Bee. Friedman also gave an update on Shohei Ohtani's knee injury, saying it has not progressed since the All-Star break.
The Dodgers also made a roster move before their game against the Seattle Mariners. They activated closer Edwin Díaz and designated left-hander Charlie Barnes for assignment, per Charlotte Observer.
Ohtani's Knee Injury Stalls Since All-Star Break
Ohtani has been dealing with a knee injury that has not improved since the All-Star break. Friedman addressed the issue directly but said the team does not expect the injury to change how they evaluate their pitching rotation heading into the deadline, according to Macon.com.
Ohtani is currently not pitching for Los Angeles. He returned from Tommy John surgery this season as a two-way player. A knee setback adds another layer of uncertainty to his pitching timeline, though Friedman kept his comments measured.
Dodgers Set Sights on Tigers' Tarik Skubal
Friedman confirmed the Dodgers plan to call the Tigers and ask about Skubal's price tag. Skubal won the AL Cy Young Award last season and is one of the most coveted starters potentially available before the July 31 deadline, per Herald Sun.
Friedman did not commit to making a deal. He said the team would simply gauge what Detroit is asking for. Skubal is under team control through 2026, which could make any trade expensive.
Strong Farm System Powers Dodgers' Trade Leverage
Friedman pointed to Los Angeles's deep farm system as a key reason the team can compete for big-name players at the deadline. A strong pipeline of prospects gives the Dodgers trade chips that most teams cannot match, according to News Observer.
The Dodgers are one of baseball's best teams this season. Their ability to absorb a large trade without gutting the organization sets them apart. Friedman made clear the team intends to stay aggressive as the deadline approaches.
Edwin Díaz Returns, Charlie Barnes Designated
In a corresponding move before Tuesday's game, the Dodgers activated closer Edwin Díaz from the injured list. Díaz is one of the best relievers in baseball when healthy. The team designated left-handed pitcher Charlie Barnes for assignment to make room on the roster, per Mod Bee.
Barnes appeared in limited action for Los Angeles this season. His designation clears a spot for Díaz, who gives the Dodgers a proven late-inning option as they push toward October.
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