MLB rumors: Philadelphia Phillies, Boston Red Sox, Los Angeles Dodgers

Jul 22, 2023; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora watches the pregame ceremony before a game against the New York Mets at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Brian Fluharty-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 22, 2023; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora watches the pregame ceremony before a game against the New York Mets at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Brian Fluharty-USA TODAY Sports
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Fantasy baseball, Dodgers, Max Muncy
Max Muncy of the Los Angeles Dodgers. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)

MLB rumors: Los Angeles Dodgers to be “passive” at MLB trade deadline?

Also in his column, Nightengale makes the case why the Dodgers will not be among the most aggressive teams at the MLB trade deadline, despite being locked in a battle with the Arizona Diamondbacks for the top of the National League West.

Nightengale expects the Dodgers to hold on to their prospects and not make any big moves in anticipation of chasing free agent Shohei Ohtani this offseason. Nightengale writes that, “they will come away with a veteran starter, and some bullpen help too, but they’re gearing up for Ohtani to be an integral part of 2024 and the rest of the decade, while still hanging onto their top prospects.”

This could be good news for any teams that are going up against the Dodgers for free agents such as Lucas Giolito of the Chicago White Sox or other pitchers that could be used as a needed boost by Los Angeles. If the bidding war gets too high, will the Dodgers back away in order to keep their collective eyes on the main prize of Ohtani this winter?

Yes, Los Angeles may improve its rotation, bullpen and depth at the MLB trade deadline, but it may not be with the star power like the Dodgers have acquired in past seasons.