Dodgers Bet on Internal Talent, Avoid Blockbuster Moves

As the 2025 MLB trade deadline approached, the Los Angeles Dodgers took a more reserved approach compared to the flurry of high-profile moves made by other contenders. Despite being linked to several big names in the weeks leading up to the deadline, the Dodgers' front office maintained confidence in their current roster.

In the days before the deadline, Dodgers general manager Brandon Gomes and president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman emphasized the team's internal talent, stating that the 2025 squad was "better than the team that won the World Series last year." This faith in their existing players ultimately guided the Dodgers' trade deadline strategy.

On the day of the deadline, the Dodgers made two relatively minor moves, reuniting with veteran right-handed reliever Brock Stewart in a trade with the Minnesota Twins and acquiring solid-hitting outfielder Alex Call from the Washington Nationals. These additions addressed the team's needs in the bullpen and outfield, but paled in comparison to the splashy deals made by rivals like the San Diego Padres and New York Mets.

While the Dodgers' deadline activity may have seemed underwhelming to some, the team's top executives remained confident that their current group, bolstered by the return of injured players, could mount another deep postseason run. As the rest of the National League contenders strengthened their rosters, the Dodgers are betting that their internal improvements will be the key to their success in the final stretch of the 2025 season.