The unexpected collapse of the Los Angeles Dodgers has sent shockwaves through the baseball world. With consecutive losses capped by an embarrassing 16-0 blowout against the Chicago Cubs, questions are being raised about the team’s roster. In response, the Dodgers are reportedly exploring major trade options in an effort to turn things around.
The most likely upgrade? Center field or second base. That’s where Chicago White Sox star Luis Robert Jr. enters the conversation. He’s seen as a strong candidate to fill the gap in center field. According to MLB insider Bob Nightengale, both teams have initiated trade talks that could send Robert Jr. to Los Angeles. However, the Dodgers would likely need to give up Triple-A outfielder James Outman and another top prospect to seal the deal.
While fans are hopeful this move could spark a turnaround, Robert Jr.’s recent performance raises concerns. In 2024, he struggled with a slash line of .217/.275/.365, hitting just five home runs and recording 39 RBIs. Still, his numbers from 2021 to 2023 offer optimism: a .287 average, 63 home runs, 179 RBIs, and 37 stolen bases.
Meanwhile, there’s more promising news for Dodgers fans—Shohei Ohtani is expected to return to pitching soon. Though he didn’t pitch at all in 2024, he still clinched the MVP award. From 2021 to 2023, Ohtani made 74 starts, tallying 542 strikeouts and a 2.84 ERA, making his return highly anticipated.
Despite the strong existing rotation featuring Roki Sasaki, Blake Snell, Tyler Glasnow, and Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Ohtani’s comeback could elevate the Dodgers to a new level. The team isn’t rushing his return, prioritizing his full recovery. In the meantime, Dustin May has held down the fort as a reliable starter.
Whether it’s through the potential trade for Luis Robert Jr. or the long-awaited return of Ohtani to the mound, the Dodgers are looking for that spark to break their slump. Fans remain hopeful—but only time will tell if these moves will restore their dominance.