The Los Angeles Dodgers were buyers at the trade deadline at 4 pm yesterday, striking multiple deals to add depth to their club that expects to make a run at the World Series come October.
After trading for Manny Machado earlier in July, the Dodgers were able to acquire an additional bat as well as an arm in Brian Dozier and John Axford.
Welcome to Los Angeles, @BrianDozier and @JohnAxford! pic.twitter.com/sRZs4SXoJd
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) July 31, 2018
Although he won’t be an everyday player, Brian Dozier is an excellent addition to this team. He was traded by the Twins for Logan Forsythe and two minor leaguers, and now the former All-Star finds himself with an opportunity to add some hardware.
.@BrianDozier has arrived! #Dodgers pic.twitter.com/C3Zu52RK1y
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) August 1, 2018
Dozier has been an exceptional player in the past but has struggled a bit this season. He is hitting a career-worst .224 with 16 home runs and 52 RBIs, but it is very likely that he can get back to his old form. He is just a year removed from being named a Gold Glover and wasn’t too shabby from behind the plate either as he maintained a .271 BA with 34 HR and 93 RBIs. However, his best season came in 2016 when he hit a career-high 42 homers and 99 RBIs.
Dozier understands that on a team like this, its hard to find time for everyone but he is ready to accept whatever role he is given. “Off the bench, playing every day, whatever the case may be. Whatever I can do to help this ballclub win and get to the postseason and win a world championship, that’s what I’m here for,” said the former All-Star.
They also added a quality arm in John Axford but had to give up prospect Corey Copping in return. Nicknamed “The Ax Man,” Axford has struggled mightily as of late, holding a 5.00 ERA over the last two seasons. He has experience as both a closer and set-up man, but Kenley Jansen has his role secured so the Dodgers GM will have to find other opportunities to use their newly acquired player.
Axford reached the peak of his MLB career in 2011 when he was a member of the Milwaukee Brewers. During that season, Axford posted a 1.95 ERA with a league-leading 46 saves to go along with 86 strikeouts. He was also bestowed with the Rolaids Relief Man Award which is presented to the best relief pitcher in both the National and American Leagues.
It’s no secret that both of these guys have had their fair share of success in the majors, and the Dodgers hope adding their veteran presence and expertise will give them a competitive edge as they attempt to make noise this postseason.
Featured Image Via Flickr/Keith Allison
