As the MLB trade deadline approaches, the Los Angeles Dodgers once again find themselves in a position to pursue upgrades for another postseason run. With one of baseball’s deepest organizations, the club has the flexibility to part with young talent if it means addressing immediate needs on the major league roster.
According to TJ French of Heavy.com, four Dodgers players stand out as potential trade candidates before the deadline: right-handed pitchers Emmet Sheehan, River Ryan and Will Klein, along with infielder Alex Freeland.
While none are guaranteed to be moved, each offers a different combination of upside, roster value and organizational depth that could make them attractive to other clubs.
Sheehan may be the most intriguing name on the list. The 25-year-old has flashed the ability to miss bats with a lively fastball and quality secondary pitches, but injuries and the Dodgers’ crowded pitching staff have made his long-term role less certain.
For rebuilding teams looking for controllable starting pitching, Sheehan could represent a worthwhile investment with significant upside if he stays healthy.
Ryan is another pitcher who could draw interest despite dealing with injuries during his professional career. His power arsenal has impressed evaluators, and when healthy, he has shown the potential to develop into a dependable major league starter.
However, the Dodgers possess considerable pitching depth throughout their system, making Ryan one of the more realistic trade pieces if Los Angeles decides to pursue established talent before the deadline.
French also identified reliever Will Klein as a possible trade candidate. Klein possesses the type of power fastball that many organizations covet, but he has struggled at times with consistency and command.
Even so, teams searching for bullpen help often target pitchers with high-end velocity and years of team control, making Klein an appealing option in the right deal. For the Dodgers, moving a reliever from an area of organizational strength could help address needs elsewhere on the roster.
On the position-player side, Alex Freeland offers versatility that could appeal to clubs seeking young infield talent. Capable of playing multiple defensive positions, Freeland combines athleticism with offensive potential and could receive a larger opportunity with another organization.
The Dodgers have routinely developed quality infield prospects, creating the flexibility to include one in a trade package if it helps improve the major league club.
The Dodgers have earned a reputation for balancing long-term player development with an aggressive pursuit of championships. While the organization values its farm system, it has also demonstrated a willingness to move prospects when the right opportunity presents itself.
Whether any of these four players ultimately changes teams remains to be seen. As French noted in his analysis for Heavy.com, Sheehan, Ryan, Klein and Freeland all possess traits that could make them valuable trade assets.
With the deadline fast approaching and contenders looking to strengthen their rosters, these young Dodgers could become central figures in potential negotiations over the coming days.
