The Los Angeles Dodgers are anticipated to be active purchasers before the trade deadline with the aim of strengthening their lineup in pursuit of securing back-to-back World Series titles.

The Dodgers have minimal needs, but would look to make some small upgrades. Dodgers insider

Jason Fray from DodgersNation connects the team to

The Pittsburgh Pirates have traded their utility player Isiah Kiner-Falefa.

Fray noted that Kiner-Falefa possesses exceptional flexibility in his fielding positions—a quality often considered essential for players on the L.A. team. Although he serves as the current Pirate’s primary shortstop, this two-time Gold Glover from 2020 is equally adept at playing third base, second base, and the outfield. Additionally, Kiner-Falefa is known for having a very low strikeout rate.

“Acquiring the 30-year-old player probably wouldn’t be too expensive. At minimum, he could offer protection for Mookie Betts, Hyeseong Kim, Max Muncy, and Tommy Edman, serving as an improvement over Chris Taylor,” Fray noted.



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Kiner-Falefa is in the

in the second year of his two-year, $15 million contract

With the Pirates, this versatile player had experience across various positions on the field with the Dodgers. As Fray pointed out, they would represent an improvement over Chris Taylor, particularly after being designated for assignment recently.

As the Pirates are no longer in the race, Pittsburgh aims to secure whatever assets they can from trading the versatile player. Consequently, Los Angeles probably doesn’t need to offer much to obtain Kiner-Falefa, who enhances their bench depth. This move would provide Dodgers’ skipper Dave Roberts with a flexible defensive choice capable of playing various positions during crucial moments later in games.

Kiner-Falefa

is batting .282 with 1 homerun and 8 RBIs this season

with the Pirates. He’s a one-time Gold Glove Award winner.


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