"You already have Gavin Lux there" - Dodgers insider slams Cubs' Nico Hoerner, backs Angels' Luis Rengifo for potential trade
Blake Williams, managing editor of the site Dodger Blue, spoke today about what he makes of the Los Angeles Dodgers' activity in the market with the trade deadline fast approaching. Speaking on the DodgerHeads podcast on the Dodger Blue YouTube channel, Williams went on to assess the infielders the Dodgers have been linked with so far, and what qualities they may bring to the squad.
With starting shortstop Mookie Betts out with a hand injury, the Chicago Cubs' Nico Hoerner and the Los Angeles Angels' Luis Rengifo, who have significant experience playing in the position for their respective sides, have been linked with a move to LA.
When asked if Williams had an ideal infielder for the Dodgers to go after, he made his preference clear:
(Timestamp: from 44:40)
" I definitely like Rengifo the best on this list. I think he's the best on there, probably by far. Nico Hoerner is probably my least favourite on the list, I don't think he's that good of a player, probably around league average as a 2nd baseman, and you already have Gavin Lux there."
The season's stats slightly back up Williams' comments, with Hoerner batting .250 along with four home runs and 33 RBIs. Rengifo on the other hand, is hitting .300 with six home runs and 30 RBIs.
Gavin Lux is also finally picking up the pace after a slow start. Growing in confidence with every at-bat, the Wisconsin native has provided big hits in some important moments for his team of late.
LA is one of the teams with the most individual quality on their team when everyone is healthy and available. However, with important players facing stints on the injury list, the lack of depth in their ranks has been apparent, leading to a lot of inconsistency.
With the biggest games of the season approaching and the Dodgers still struggling for form, they will be looking to bring in quality players to help steady the ship.
Dodgers add Edman, Kopech in three-man trade, eyeing starting pitchers
According to reports, utility man Tommy Edman from the St. Louis Cardinals and Michael Kopech from the Chicago White Sox are both set to ply their trade for the Dodgers.
In return for these two additions, LA sent Miguel Vargas to the White Sox, along with top prospects Jeral Perez and Alexander Albertus.
After this move, the Dodgers will likely be focused on acquiring a starting pitcher. Interest in long-time target Garrett Crochet has seemingly cooled, and with the White Sox man heavily linked to St. Louis, that deal may not be on the table at all at this point.
Detroit Tigers ace Tarik Skubal has also been talked about for a fair bit of time now, but it remains to be seen if they can swing a trade for the Tigers star.