As usual, the Los Angeles Dodgers are right in the thick of the pennant race.
They have become one of the few franchises in Major League Baseball that is truly championship or bust.
It’s become apparent that they might be able to take their starting pitching to a whole other level if they trade for one pitcher in particular.
According to reports, the Dodgers are setting their sights on acquiring Chicago White Sox right-hander Lucas Giolito as the MLB trade deadline draws near.
The rumors surrounding the Dodgers interest in Giolito have started to gain traction throughout the league, adding fuel to the speculation.
With a current record of 51-38, the Dodgers currently sit atop the National League West division. However, the first half of the season proved to be a challenging one for Los Angeles, as their pitching staff struggled with injuries and inconsistent performances.
The absence of ace Walker Buehler compounded their problems, while Clayton Kershaw, Noah Syndergaard, Dustin May, Tony Gonsolin, and Julio Urias all faced injury setbacks or failed to meet expectations.
Considering the Dodgers need for pitching reinforcements, it is hardly surprising to see them linked to a pitcher like Giolito.
If the rumors hold true, Giolito is likely to be the most sought-after starting pitcher available in the trade market leading up to the MLB trade deadline, unless the Cleveland Guardians initiate a fire sale.
Giolito, currently 28 years old, has a career ERA of 4.22, a WHIP of 1.22, and an impressive strikeout rate of 9.5 per nine innings.
Although he has experienced some ups and downs throughout his career, he has shown himself to be one of the league’s premier strikeout artists when at his best.
A potential trade to the Dodgers would likely be welcomed by Giolito, who has reportedly had tense contract negotiations with the White Sox. Additionally, it would be somewhat of a homecoming for the right-hander, as he played high school baseball in Los Angeles.
While the Dodgers face competition from other interested teams, they are expected to be among the most aggressive suitors for Giolito’s services.
Do you think the Dodgers should trade for Giolito?
If they do acquire him, would they have enough firepower to beat the Braves in the National League?