Full Breakdown
Dodgers Eye Trade Deadline Amid Injuries, Manager Says Team May Be Sellers
7/22/2026, 11:10:38 AM
Core Event
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said the team “doesn’t see any glaring needs.” The comment comes as the club copes with two high-profile injuries: two-way star Shohei Ohtani is sidelined from pitching with a lingering left-knee issue, and catcher Will Smith remains on the 60-day injured list with an inflamed neck disc.
Background & Context
The Dodgers entered the second half of the 2026 season with the best record in baseball (63-38 through 101 games) and a clear path to a third consecutive World Series title. Smith’s injury dates back to June 5 and was moved to the 60-day list on June 8, making August 7 the earliest possible return, though Roberts described a “mid-to-late August” scenario as the best-case outlook.
Data & Statistics
- Team record: 63-38 (best in MLB).
- Shohei Ohtani (pitching): 1.79 ERA, 95 strikeouts in 85.2 innings.
- Will Smith (catcher): out since early June; no recent offensive numbers.
- Dalton Rushing (backup catcher): .233/.333/.398 line since June 1, 104 wRC+.
Official Statements & Responses
Roberts emphasized confidence in internal options, saying, “Our expectation is that Will is going to be back,” and noting the team “feels good with Dalton” as the primary backstop. He added that “there are certainties and there are uncertainties, and you have to make a bet.”
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources diverge on the likelihood of the Dodgers acquiring a high-profile starter such as Tarik Skubal. The *New York Post* cites August 7 as the procedural earliest return date for Smith, while *The Athletic* mentions “mid-August” as the best-case scenario, indicating uncertainty about his rehab progress.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I could almost argue that we’re sellers more than buyers,” — Dave Roberts, Dodgers manager
- “Personally, I don’t see any glaring needs,” — Dave Roberts, Dodgers manager
What’s Next
- Aug. 3: MLB trade deadline; Dodgers will decide whether to add depth or remain sellers.
- Aug. 7 (earliest): Potential return date for Will Smith, pending medical clearance.
- Upcoming weeks: Ohtani slated to throw a bullpen session to assess knee health before any pitching return.
The Dodgers’ approach to the deadline will hinge on health updates for Ohtani and Smith, the availability of trade targets, and the organization’s willingness to “make a bet” amid the uncertainties outlined by their manager.
