The Dodgers have made a significant move by acquiring right-hander Tyler Glasnow and outfielder Manuel Margot in a four-player deal with the Rays. The trade addresses two important needs for the team, and it was announced that Glasnow has also agreed to a five-year contract extension with the Dodgers for $136.5 million.
In the trade, the Dodgers received RHP Tyler Glasnow and OF Manuel Margot, while the Rays acquired RHP Ryan Pepiot and OF Jonny Deluca. Glasnow, who grew up in Santa Clarita, Calif., will now have the opportunity to pitch for his hometown team. The 30-year-old pitcher is known for his powerful arsenal, headlined by a four-seam fastball that reached 99 mph last season, as well as an effective slider and curveball.
Despite his impressive pitching abilities, injury history has been a concern for Glasnow, as he has been limited by various health issues in the past. His 2023 season debut was delayed due to a left oblique strain, and he underwent Tommy John surgery in August 2021. However, the Dodgers are hopeful that he will make a strong contribution to their rotation.
Manuel Margot, a 29-year-old outfielder, provides versatility and depth to the Dodgers’ outfield. Primarily a center fielder, Margot also has experience playing in all three outfield positions. As a right-handed hitter, he is expected to serve as a platoon partner for Jason Heyward in right field and provide backup for James Outman in center.
The addition of Margot is a step towards strengthening the Dodgers’ outfield, but there is still a need for an everyday left fielder. Furthermore, the team aims to bolster its pitching rotation, which currently faces several challenges due to injuries and lack of experience among the starters. As a result, the Dodgers are actively pursuing additional arms for their rotation, exploring both free-agent signings and potential trade options.
In the deal, the Dodgers parted ways with pitching prospect Ryan Pepiot, who was considered a valuable asset for the team. Pepiot had shown promise as a young pitcher, but a left oblique strain caused him to miss a significant portion of the season. Meanwhile, outfield prospect Jonny Deluca, who made his MLB debut last season, displayed his potential with a combination of power and speed.
The Dodgers’ efforts to strengthen their roster align with the commitment made by Shohei Ohtani, who provided the team with financial flexibility by deferring the majority of his owed money. This allowed the Dodgers to pursue significant acquisitions, such as the trade for Glasnow and Margot, as well as potential signings and trades to address their remaining needs. With the inaugural season just around the corner, the Dodgers are focused on assembling a competitive and well-rounded roster to vie for the championship.
