Andrew Friedman is not one to show his cards easily.
When asked about the chances of the Dodgers acquiring a star player before the looming trade deadline on Monday, he simply replied, “I don’t know.” He added, “I’m not in the handicapping business.”
However, this doesn’t mean he’s completely averse to making a big move.
As he spoke to reporters about the Dodgers’ plans, Friedman relied on familiar corporate language, reiterating that the team didn’t have any “urgent needs” to fill before trade activity halts. He expressed confidence in the health of the pitching staff as they strive for a third consecutive World Series title.
Yet, when the topic turned to possibly pursuing someone like Tigers’ ace Tarik Skubal, Friedman didn’t rule it out.
It’s true that under his guidance, the Dodgers have often been calculated in their approach.
“I think our mindset has always been that we recognize there aren’t many star-level players available,” he explained. “We’ll always be part of those conversations when they arise. In the past, we’ve demonstrated a proactive stance.”
The potential pursuit of Skubal has been a hot topic in Los Angeles, with many seeing the Dodgers as a formidable contender for the two-time Cy Young Award winner. According to Friedman, the Dodgers’ deep farm system positions them well to communicate with any team about potential trades.
With the Tigers seemingly stepping back from playoff contention, it’s becoming increasingly likely that Skubal could be on the move, and it’s anticipated that the Dodgers will explore possible options.
“We always keep in mind that our goal is to position ourselves for success,” Friedman stated. “Sometimes things align, and sometimes they don’t. We aim to be strategic, even if that means being selective about what’s available at the deadline.”
The Dodgers feel optimistic about being well-prepared for October, regardless of how the upcoming trade deadline unfolds.
Recently, the team has welcomed back Quique Hernandez and Edwin Diaz from the injured list. Tyler Glasnow is set to begin rehabilitation after engaging in live batting practice, while Blake Snell is approaching the end of his scheduled outing. Will Smith is also back to full health, a relief after dealing with a lingering neck issue.
Meanwhile, concerns about Shohei Ohtani’s pitching status remain, as he’s currently restricted to lighter activities due to a painful left knee.
Friedman noted that Ohtani’s knee is improving, suggesting that he could be back in action soon. “If it weren’t for the knee, he would be pitching by now,” he remarked. “The ongoing improvement is a good sign.”
Ideally, the Dodgers envision a postseason rotation featuring Ohtani alongside Snell, Glasnow, and Yoshinobu Yamamoto. This would allow others, like Justin Roblewski and Roki Sasaki, to support the bullpen, enhancing a relief unit that has become significantly stronger with Diaz’s return.
For most teams, such favorable circumstances would likely eliminate the need for a significant move, even for a player as talented as Skubal.
But the Dodgers operate differently.
With the chance for a historic three-peat looming ahead, Friedman appears ready to explore the market. Not just to keep players away from competitors, but because the Dodgers are always “open-minded” about good opportunities.
