Dodgers weigh bullpen options as trade deadline approaches

Los Angeles Dodgers chief of baseball operations Andrew Friedman said the club is "less likely" to add players to the major-league roster before the March 31 deadline, after completing a trade for right-hander Tarik Skubal on Saturday. The team entered the final day of the trade window following a 8-4 loss to the Boston Red Sox, which highlighted deficiencies in base running, starting pitching and offensive production.

Manager Dave Roberts noted the Red Sox "outplayed us" and were "hungrier," adding that the loss was not an excuse for the Dodgers' performance. The bullpen, once a strength, now ranks among the league's lowest in ERA after its 38-inning scoreless streak ended in May. While closer Edwin Díaz has returned, relievers Brock Stewart and Will Klein are on the injured list, and other right-handed options have struggled.

Sources familiar with the club's plans indicated no external relief pitchers will be acquired. Instead, the Dodgers may shift surplus starters to the bullpen once their rotation stabilizes. Left-hander Justin Wrobleksi and right-hander Roki Sasaki, both of whom performed in relief roles in October, are potential candidates. Pitcher Emmet Sheehan, who was excluded from the Skubal trade, delivered a poor outing in the series finale, raising concerns about his consistency.

Roberts said he does not know Sheehan's future role, suggesting a possible move to the bullpen similar to last season. The team also continues to evaluate the sale of surplus assets such as Eric Lauer and outfielder Alex Call, and may explore minor-league deals to clear a logjam of outfield prospects.

Catcher Dalton Rushing was scratched from Sunday’s game due to minor arm irritation, with an X-ray returning negative. With catcher Will Smith sidelined by a neck injury, the Dodgers are monitoring the catcher market for depth options.