As the MLB trade deadline looms, the Los Angeles Dodgers are in a prime buying position, leading the NL West comfortably and appearing poised for a solid postseason trek. Yet, despite these successes, underlying roster issues threaten to upend their playoff aspirations unless addressed soon, particularly in the outfield, pitching, and shortstop positions.
### Three Dodgers Who May Find Themselves on the Edge as Deadline Nears
**Jason Heyward**
Once a triumph for the Dodgers following a dismal stint with the Cubs, Jason Heyford’s resurgence in Los Angeles has waned. Signed to a one-year, $9 million deal for the 2023 season, Heyward has not replicated his past performance, batting just .203 with frequent injury setbacks.
With his second stint on the injured list commencing July 5 due to a bone bruise and after significant down time with back issues, Heyward looks increasingly likely to be cut. Amidst a search for outfield reinforcements, Heyward’s departure, even with his salary, might be justified as the Dodgers could utilize younger talents like Andy Pages or Miguel Vargas instead of further risking his underperformance.
**Gavin Lux**
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Lux has been a focal point of fan frustration since the season’s start, his relocation from shortstop to second base accentuating his inability to stabilize his performance. Batting a paltry .207 with diminished offense, his staying in the major leagues has bewildered many, given he still has minor league options. This ongoing slump has likely tanked his trade value, making a demotion appear more as a necessary intervention than a setback, especially to recalibrate his capabilities either for future trades or improved team utility.
**James Outman**
Outman, in his sophomore year, faced immediate regression after an encouraging rookie season where he secured a credible .790 OPS with 23 home runs. His rapid drop to a .147 average by mid-May precipitated a send-down to Triple-A, despite some recovery with occasional starts in July.
As the Dodgers eye external outfield talent, Outman’s spot is precarious. He still boasts potential and could be an appealing trade component or, failing that, another candidate for further minor league refinement.
As the Dodgers navigate this critical juncturnal with an eye on enhancing their World Series prospects, the trio of Heyward, Lux, and Outman find themselves in a precarious balancing act between remaining valuable major league assets or making way for new talent that could stabilize and invigorate the team’s trajectory towards October.
