Los Angeles Dodgers Remain Interested in Acquiring Starting Pitcher, Including Justin Verlander and Mitch Keller
Los Angeles Dodgers made a significant move last week by acquiring Lance Lynn from the Chicago White Sox to strengthen their starting rotation. However, the Dodgers are not done yet and remain interested in adding another starting pitcher before the trade deadline. The two names that have been linked with the Dodgers are Justin Verlander of the New York Mets and Mitch Keller of the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Both Verlander and Keller are under contract beyond this season, which fits the Dodgers’ preference for a long-term solution. The Dodgers and Houston Astros are reportedly the most engaged teams in talks with the Mets for a potential Verlander trade. However, some insiders believe that the Dodgers are not fully committed to pursuing the veteran pitcher.
During “Dodger Talk” on AM 570 L.A. Sports Radio, David Vassegh mentioned that the Dodgers may not be going all-in for Verlander. According to Vassegh, the Dodgers would only consider acquiring Verlander if the price is right, similar to the deal the Mets worked out with the Texas Rangers for Max Scherzer. There are even rumblings that the San Francisco Giants could be lurking in the Verlander sweepstakes.
As an alternative, the Dodgers may turn their attention to Mitch Keller of the Pirates. Keller has reportedly rejected a contract extension offer from the Pirates, leading to speculation that he may be available in a trade. Vassegh also noted that the Dodgers and Pirates are in talks for the All-Star right-hander.
Keller, 27, has put up solid numbers this season, with a 9-7 record, 3.97 ERA, 3.82 FIP, and 1.21 WHIP in 22 starts. He earned his first All-Star selection this year and has emerged as a key part of the Pirates’ rotation. Keller is under team control until after the 2025 season, providing the Dodgers with long-term security if a trade is completed. However, acquiring Keller would require the Dodgers to part with significant prospect capital.
In the event that neither Verlander nor Keller is acquired, the Dodgers have other trade options on their radar. Eduardo Rodriguez of the Detroit Tigers and Jack Flaherty of the St. Louis Cardinals are two potential targets. Rodriguez has an opt-out clause after the 2023 season, while Flaherty is set to become a free agent this winter.
The Dodgers have until the trade deadline on Tuesday at 3 p.m. PT to finalize any deals. Their pursuit of a starting pitcher indicates their intention to bolster their rotation for the postseason push. As one of the top teams in baseball, the Dodgers are looking for any advantage they can get to secure another World Series title.