Will Andrew Friedman work his magic yet again and provide the Los Angeles Dodgers with another difference-maker at the trade deadline?
The architect of this juggernaut intentionally has made a concerted effort in building up the depth on the ballclub and in the minor league system.
The thought was to avoid having to even deal at the deadline, where prices are exorbitant and the thought of relinquishing a good prospect for a rental is not something the Dodgers ever find palatable.
Even then, the injuries to the pitching staff have taken a major toll on the bullpen. It might be too optimistic to assume the Dodgers will have their full assortment of pitchers for the stretch run.
Mark Feinsand of MLB.com broke down the major trade targets ahead of next month along with possible teams involved for these players. Los Angeles, along with the Cubs and Astros, were specifically associated with ex-Dodgers left-handed pitcher Andrew Heaney.
“No, this isn’t the Pittsburgh starting pitcher whose potential availability has generated so much buzz, but Paul Skenes isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. Mitch Keller could be in play, though he’s signed through 2028, so Heaney – who is pitching on a one-year, $5.25 million deal – could be a better option. Heaney is 3-5 despite a 3.33 ERA in 14 starts, and the 34-year-old has pitched in the postseason in two of the past three seasons.”
Heaney fits the bill as an experienced pitcher that won’t cost much. There’s also the added benefit in Heaney formerly being with the organization. He pitched fairly well for the Dodgers in 2022, going 4-4 with a 3.10 ERA.
This year, Heaney has done well in not walking hitters. He’s also been good at getting hitters to chase with an assortment of off-speed pitches at his disposal.
While Heaney wouldn’t necessarily be atop the Dodgers’ rotation in a playoff series, he is a good option to have as an experienced innings-eater with the ability to keep hitters off-balance via his unique delivery from the left side.
