The Los Angeles Dodgers have made a significant trade with the Tampa Bay Rays. The Dodgers acquired right-handed pitcher Tyler Glasnow and outfielder Manuel Margot from the Rays in exchange for outfielder Jonny Deluca and right-handed pitcher Ryan Pepiot.
The deal was completed on the same day that the Dodgers introduced Shohei Ohtani as a new team member. Glasnow and Margot join the Dodgers in exchange for Deluca and Pepiot, two young players with several years of team control left.
Glasnow is known as one of the best pitchers in baseball when healthy, but he has struggled with injuries throughout his career. After returning from Tommy John surgery, he showed promise and struck out a third of the batters he faced in the 2023 season. However, concerns remain about his durability and ability to pitch consistently.
Manuel Margot is a high-contact hitter with limited power. His value is largely attributed to his strong defensive skills in the outfield, but his performance has declined since suffering a knee injury in 2022.
The trade also sees the Rays acquiring Jonny Deluca, a young outfielder with potential, and Ryan Pepiot, a right-handed pitcher with a high-grade changeup. Pepiot showed promise in the 2023 season but has limited experience at the major league level.
The trade presents risks for both teams, with the Dodgers aiming for a World Series title and the Rays seeking to bolster their roster. The outcome of the trade remains uncertain, as each player involved presents a wide range of possible outcomes.
The deal is contingent on Glasnow and the Dodgers working out a contract extension. The Dodgers will acquire one year of Glasnow’s service and the $25 million he’s owed for the 2024 season.
Overall, the trade marks a significant move for both teams as they look to strengthen their rosters for the upcoming season.