The Dodgers’ Desperate Need for Bullpen Help
The Los Angeles Dodgers are in dire need of bullpen assistance as they continue their quest for a World Series title. Despite having one of the strongest starting rotations in the league, their relief pitching has been a major weakness this season.
With the trade deadline quickly approaching, the Dodgers must make a move to bolster their bullpen if they want to have a chance at making a deep playoff run. Their current relievers have struggled to consistently hold leads and close out games, putting added pressure on their already dominant starting pitchers.
In recent games, the Dodgers have seen their bullpen blow multiple leads and lose crucial games. This not only affects their record, but also takes a toll on the team’s morale and confidence. The lack of reliable relief pitching has become a glaring issue that needs to be addressed immediately.
The Dodgers’ front office must be proactive in finding a solution to their bullpen woes. Whether it’s through a trade or promoting from within their farm system, they need to make a move to solidify their bullpen and give their team a better chance
The Los Angeles Dodgers are tied with the New York Mets for the third-best record in the National League and have a four-game lead in the NL West over the San Diego Padres.
Despite their success, the Dodgers have a glaring weakness in their bullpen, as Tanner Scott and Kirby Yates have struggled this season. That is an area they could look to improve.
The trade deadline is going to be pivotal for them.
Kerry Miller of Bleacher Report listed his Top 10 trade candidates with two days to go until the deadline. Among them was St. Louis Cardinals closer Ryan Helsley, and the Dodgers were listed as a fit.
“He went through a rough patch in early June, blowing saves in three consecutive appearances. Since then, though, he has reeled it back in and should be a top target for bullpen shoppers the likes of the Phillies, Dodgers, Rangers and Tigers,” Miller wrote.
Helsley is 3-1 with a 3.00 ERA this season in 36 appearances and he has recorded 21 saves. Last year, he set a Cardinals franchise record with 49 saves.
That was enough for him to be named the National League Reliever of the Year. The Cardinals will certainly have a high asking price for the veteran right-hander.
However, the Dodgers have a very deep farm system and could pull off a potential deal for the two-time All-Star. Having him at the back end of games could certainly settle things down for a bullpen that has struggled a bit.
The Dodgers will be buyers at Thursday’s deadline, while the Cardinals are selling and falling out of contention. Los Angeles will likely be very aggressive in their pursuit of defending their World Series title.
We’ll see if Helsley ends up in L.A.
More MLB: Dodgers trade rumors: Luis Robert, Jhoan Duran among 7 top options for Los Angeles at 2025 deadline
