Dodgers, Phillies Seek Bullpen, Outfield Upgrades Before MLB Deadline

As the MLB trade deadline approaches, the Los Angeles Dodgers have been active in acquiring pitching prospects and relievers, including a recent three-team trade sending minor-league catcher Hunter Feduccia to Tampa Bay while receiving pitching prospect Adam Serwinowski, reliever Paul Gervase, and catcher Ben Rortvedt. Despite these moves, the Dodgers remain focused on adding a high-leverage right-handed relief pitcher, with names like Jhoan Durán, Louis Varland, and Griffin Jax from the Minnesota Twins being linked to them, as their bullpen has struggled and is heavily left-handed. Additionally, improving outfield defense has become a priority due to poor defensive metrics from starters like Teoscar Hernández and Michael Conforto, leading the Dodgers to target players such as Cleveland Guardians outfielder Steven Kwan and Harrison Bader to upgrade both defense and offense. Manager Dave Roberts has confirmed their pursuit of relief pitching and potential offensive upgrades, with the team also considering acquiring outfielders to address weaknesses. Meanwhile, the Philadelphia Phillies successfully acquired reliever Jhoan Duran from Minnesota, planning to name him their closer and shifting focus towards strengthening their offense, particularly seeking a right-handed bat in the outfield. Both teams are actively navigating the trade market to bolster their rosters ahead of the postseason, with pitching and outfield upgrades being key focal points.