The strategic acquisitions by the Los Angeles Dodgers at the 2024 MLB trade deadline have increased their roster depth by addressing key areas of need and adding veteran experience to complement their already decent lineup when healthy.

Although the club did not land several high-impact players like many fans presumed, the additions provide invaluable flexibility, reinforcing both the pitching staff and the lineup with reliable options.

However, while these trades are crucial for maintaining a competitive edge through the final stretch of the season, the ultimate success of the Dodgers in October and beyond will hinge on the timely return of a handful of key players.

With stars like Mookie Betts, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Brusdar Graterol, Ryan Brasier — and hopefully Max Muncy — poised to rejoin the roster, their health and performance will be pivotal in determining the team’s ability to navigate the high-pressure postseason and secure a World Series title.

Flaherty Comes Home

The acquisition of Burbank native Jack Flaherty was one of the team’s most significant moves, bolstering a questionable rotation with a proven, high-caliber pitcher. Flaherty’s track record of success, including his dynamic fastball and sharp breaking arsenal, makes him an invaluable addition to the staff. His ability to dominate in high-pressure situations and provide consistency in the rotation addresses a critical need, giving the Dodgers a reliable arm to complement the existing rotation and enhance the team’s overall pitching depth.

Although Flaherty is a free agent at the end of the season, the team did not sacrifice much in the deal, sending minor leaguers Trey Sweeney and Thayron Liranzo back to Detroit. Before the trade, Flaherty was 7-5 with a respectable 2.95 ERA and 0.956 WHIP with 133 punchouts over 106-2/3 innings of work.

Edman, Ahmed and Rosario

The addition of Tommy Edman, Nick Ahmed and Amed Rosario significantly strengthens the Los Angeles infield, especially in light of the uncertainties surrounding Muncy and Miguel Rojas. Edman’s versatility and defensive prowess offer a valuable upgrade at multiple infield positions, while Ahmed’s Gold Glove-caliber defense provides a steady presence and reliable fielding. Rosario adds depth and offensive potential, further solidifying the infield’s overall stability.

Edman, 29, has missed all of the 2024 season after undergoing wrist surgery in the offseason. Last season, he hit .248 with 13 homers and 47 RBI in 137 games with the Cardinals. The switch-hitting infielder has been in the Majors five seasons, slashing .265/.319/.408 with 53 homers, 222 RBI and 106 stolen bases. He has seen time at six different positions on the field, winning the Rawlings Gold Glove in 2021 at second base after posting a .990 fielding percentage in 508 chances.

Edman recently began a rehab assignment where he has primarily been a designated hitter, although he expects to be on the field defensively soon.

Ahmed, 34, joins the Dodgers after spending the first half of the season with the Giants. He played 52 games for San Francisco, hitting .232 with one homer, six doubles and 15 RBI and was released on July 10. He was a standout at shortstop, making three errors in 198 chances and turning 33 double plays.

Rosario, 28, rejoins the Dodgers for the second straight season after being traded last summer for right-handed pitcher Noah Syndergaard. As a utilityman for the Rays before the trade, he hit .307 with two homers and 26 RBI in 76 games.

Will the Real Kopech Please Stand Up?

The Michael Kopech trade has the potential to benefit the Dodgers significantly, though it does come with some uncertainties. Kopech’s high-velocity fastball and high strikeout rate make him a compelling addition to the bullpen, offering a dynamic arm that could enhance the team’s late-game strategies and provide key outs in high-leverage situations.

However, Kopech’s injury history and recent inconsistencies have raised questions about his long-term reliability and effectiveness. If the coaching can successfully manage these uncertainties and help him harness his full potential, he could become a vital asset in their quest for a championship.
Before the trade, the 28-year-old righty made 43 appearances for the White Sox, going 2-8 with a 4.74 ERA and nine saves.

The Dodgers also acquired lefty-hitting Kevin Kiermaier from the Blue Jays to provide a solid defensive option and a veteran presence in center field. Before the trade, the 34-year-old was slashing .195/.236/.310 in an even 200 bats with Toronto. He plans to retire at the end of the season.