The Los Angeles Dodgers and Tampa Bay Rays have struck a deal that will send starting pitcher Tyler Glasnow to the Dodgers. The trade is contingent on Glasnow signing a contract extension with Los Angeles, a move both parties are hopeful will happen soon.
The extension window opened on Thursday, and if completed, the Dodgers will acquire not only Glasnow but also outfielder Manuel Margot. In return, the Rays will receive right-handed starter Ryan Pepiot and outfield prospect Jonny Deluca.
Glasnow is considered one of the top starting pitchers in the trade market and is known for his dominant performance on the mound. In the 2023 season, he logged 120 innings, striking out 162 batters while maintaining a 3.53 ERA. This acquisition would bolster the Dodgers’ starting rotation, coming shortly after they signed Shohei Ohtani to a lucrative 10-year, $700 million contract.
The freed-up budget from the Ohtani deal allows the Dodgers to potentially offer Glasnow a substantial extension, making him part of their roster for the long term. Currently, Ohtani, Mookie Betts, and Freddie Freeman are the only Dodgers signed beyond 2025.
Tampa Bay had been exploring trade options for Glasnow since the beginning of the offseason. While they initially considered retaining him at a $25 million salary, the trade market value eventually led to his departure.
Ryan Pepiot, a 26-year-old pitcher, was expected to be part of the Dodgers’ rotation. He has shown promise in his time with the team, posting a 2.76 ERA. Pepiot’s performance in 2023 was particularly impressive, with a 2.14 ERA and an impressive 38-to-5 strikeout-to-walk ratio in 42 innings.
Jonny Deluca, 25, made his MLB debut this year and demonstrated his batting prowess in the minor leagues. He is capable of playing all three outfield positions and had an impressive .271/.357/.526 batting line in the minors.
Joining the Dodgers with Glasnow is outfielder Manuel Margot, a 29-year-old known for his exceptional defense. Margot will earn $10 million this season and will be a valuable addition to the Dodgers’ outfield rotation.
Glasnow had been with the Rays since 2018, when he was acquired in a trade that sent Chris Archer to the Pittsburgh Pirates. In his time with the Rays, Glasnow compiled a 27-16 record and a 3.20 ERA over 388â…“ innings. Injuries have limited his playing time, including Tommy John surgery in 2021, but he has consistently demonstrated his strikeout ability.
This trade is one of several major moves in the MLB trade market, with other notable pitchers like Dylan Cease, Corbin Burnes, and Shane Bieber also potentially on the move in the coming weeks.