MLB Insider Says Top Dodgers Trade Target May Be Unavailable at Deadline

Who should the Dodgers go after?

As the trade deadline approaches, it has become more and more evident that the Dodgers need to make some changes to the roster. They find themselves still in contention — sitting in second place in the NL — but they aren't playing up to the standard that they have set for themselves over the last decade or so. 

The team has a real need in the bullpen but according to Bob Nightenglae of USA Today, you can cross off the Dodgers top target. Nightengale is reporting that the Chicago White Sox want to hold onto All-Star closer Liam Hendriks.

The Chicago White Sox may have plenty of trade chips at the deadline if they’re out of the race, including shortstop Tim Anderson, starter Lucas Giolito and relievers Kendall Graveman and Joe Kelly, but plan to retain closer Liam Hendriks. He’s not only a fan favorite, but a personal favorite of owner Jerry Reinsdorf.

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Per Nightengale, USA Today

If true, this is certainly a blow to the Dodgers as Hendriks would have solved a ton of issues. It could have given them a true closer to come in and shut the door in the 9th inning. Obviously things could change between now and August 1, when the trade deadline is, but when the owner likes a player, they normally don't get moved.

Hendriks wasn't the only option for the Dodgers but he may have been the best that we know could be available. Los Angeles needs to pivot and address the problems that continue to plague this team.

The #Dodgers bullpen has gone from a strength to a clear weakness. If this team has any hope of winning come playoff time, it needs to be addressed and fast

— Matthew Levine (@Levine1445) June 7, 2023

Without a strong bullpen, the hopes of winning a World Series this season are pretty much a moot point. Having strong relief pitchers come playoff time normally determines who wins it all.

The Dodgers aren't a bad team by any means but the issues in the pen will come back to haunt them if not properly addressed over the next month and a half.