The Los Angeles Dodgers made a major trade on Tuesday, but their offseason of moves could be far from done.
The Dodgers traded second baseman Gavin Lux to the Cincinnati Reds after spending his entire career in Los Angeles.
Although the Dodgers have already completed big moves, Lux might just be the first of many players Los Angeles will trade this offseason.
The Dodgers have expressed a strong interest in signing free-agent starting pitcher Roki Sasaki. Additionally, acquiring another reliever for the bullpen may be an option.
To do this, Los Angeles must make space on their 40-man roster, which could be bad news for a trio of current players.
Shortstop Miguel Rojas and outfielders Chris Taylor and James Outman are reportedly among possible trade pieces for the Dodgers, per MLB.com’s Sonja Chen.
Rojas stepped up as a shortstop for the Dodgers after the injury to Mookie Betts last season. His success in the position, strong offensive performance, and leadership in the clubhouse will likely give him a stronger chance of remaining with the Dodgers.
Rojas’ $5 million player option also benefits the franchise financially as they continue to make big moves in the offseason.
As far as outfielders, Taylor and Outman are at different points in their MLB careers.
Outman had a standout rookie season in 2023. He finished third in National League Rookie of the Year voting and was named NL Rookie of the Month twice.
However, the 27-year-old’s performance at the plate significantly declined this season. He spent the majority of the season in Triple-A. Outman slashed .147/.256/.265 through 53 games in 2024 compared to a .248/.353/.437 slash-line across 151 games in 2023.
Meanwhile, Taylor, a longtime Dodgers veteran, is 34 years old with a bat that is progressively worsening each season. He slashed .202/.298/.300 across 87 games in 2024. The two-time World Series champion is entering the final year of his four-year contract, which includes a club option for 2026.
Teoscar Hernández, Michael Conforto, and Tommy Edman likely have the three outfield positions secured. Therefore, there is not much room available for Outman or Taylor.
