The Los Angeles Dodgers, despite their success in securing a World Series title, are facing some roster challenges heading into the 2025 season. Their pitching depth is both a strength and a dilemma, as they now have more quality arms than they can effectively manage. This issue has led analysts to speculate that the team may need to make trades to balance their roster.
Dodgers’ Overloaded Pitching Staff
During the offseason, the Dodgers were aggressive in strengthening their pitching rotation. Their star-studded lineup now includes Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Roki Sasaki, Blake Snell, and Tyler Glasnow. Additionally, they still have Tony Gonsolin and Dustin May returning to the mix. However, this surplus of talent has created what analysts are calling a “numbers problem,” raising concerns about how the team will manage all their pitching options.
“They’ve got a numbers problem.”
While the Dodgers could be reluctant to trade some of their depth starters, @Ken_Rosenthal says it might be necessary at some point. pic.twitter.com/PnmL82n6SJ
— Foul Territory (@FoulTerritoryTV) March 20, 2025
While the Dodgers have been hesitant to trade away their depth starters, they may soon have no choice. During an episode of Foul Territory on March 2, MLB analyst Ken Rosenthal pointed out the difficulties the team could face, saying, “What are they gonna do with all these guys? How are they going to pitch?” He further suggested that the Dodgers might have to consider making moves to address this situation.
Rosenthal also highlighted an additional challenge: the presence of multiple high-profile Japanese players on the roster. With Sasaki, Yamamoto, and Ohtani (once he resumes pitching), the Dodgers must carefully balance their rotation to accommodate all their stars. Injuries have been a recurring issue for the team’s pitchers in past seasons, adding to the uncertainty of how the Dodgers will proceed.
Potential Trade Candidate: Bobby Miller
Following the conclusion of the 2025 Tokyo Series, where the Dodgers secured a 6-3 victory over the Chicago Cubs, discussions about potential trades intensified. The team is reportedly considering moving 25-year-old pitcher Bobby Miller.
Miller showed promise during his rookie season but has struggled with consistency. In 133 career starts, he has posted an 8.52 ERA, raising concerns about his long-term role with the team. Despite his potential, Miller has failed to make the necessary improvements, even after being sent to Triple-A for development. With the Dodgers’ deep pitching roster, he may be the odd man out.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts acknowledged that the team is loaded with pitching talent, making it difficult for everyone to get playing time. Given Miller’s recent struggles, his chances of securing a permanent spot in the rotation appear slim, making a trade more likely.
Balancing the Roster for the Future
The Dodgers face a tough decision: should they hold onto young talent like Miller and try to develop him further, or should they trade him to strengthen other areas of the team? While their pitching depth is an asset, maintaining a balanced roster is crucial for long-term success. If the Dodgers decide to move Miller, it could help them address other needs and create a more structured pitching rotation moving forward.
As the season progresses, the front office will have to determine whether making roster changes is necessary to avoid potential setbacks. With the team’s history of injury issues among pitchers, having depth is valuable, but finding the right balance will be key to their success in 2025.