Dodgers Eye Trade Deadline: Sellers or Buyers?

The 2026 season's trade deadline is fast approaching on August 3rd, with only one week remaining. The Dodgers are largely expected to act as sellers this year, a move influenced by the increased number of teams still competing for a playoff spot.

The team is also preparing for the return of key players. Edwin Díaz is slated to rejoin the club on Wednesday, while Kiké Hernández is expected back as early as Tuesday. Blake Snell is scheduled for his third rehab start on Wednesday in Triple-A Oklahoma City, aiming to build up his pitch count before rejoining the rotation. Tyler Glasnow also faced live hitters on Friday and is on track for a rehab start.

In terms of potential departures, Eric Lauer and Alex Call are being discussed as trade candidates. Lauer has performed well as an inning-eater since his mid-May acquisition, and while keeping him for depth is an option, the Dodgers might opt to trade him for prospects, similar to their strategy with Dustin May last season. Alex Call's potential trade becomes more logical with the return of the Hernández players, as he represents a redundant left-handed bat.

Despite Shohei Ohtani not currently pitching, management insists this will not influence their trade deadline decisions, and he remains in the lineup. The Dodgers' front office is reportedly open to acquiring high-profile players like Tarik Skubal if made available, but their primary focus appears to be on strengthening their farm system by trading current rostered players.