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The Dodgers’ pitching woes are becoming more and more obvious everyday. The bullpen is stretched thin, relying on the likes of Jack Traschner and Travis Schlichting to make end’s meet. The much-maligned rotation is improving now that Vicente Padilla has hit his stride, and could improve if Chad Billingsley’s last start is any indication of his future performance. But still, fans would be very grateful for some kind of aid at the non-waiver trade deadline. You can stop screaming for Roy Oswalt or Dan Haren. Everyone knows the Dodgers need an ace, but the cost for getting one is too steep, and would likely poach the major-league roster. A sure-fire win every fifth day is not worth a suspect lineup the other four days. More realistic expectations:
Ted Lilly: A veteran lefty who was originally drafted by the Dodgers, Lilly is the kind of deal the Dodgers, and especially Ned Colletti, enjoy making: acquiring a pitcher at the end of his contract who could provide some veteran leadership. The Dodgers acquired Greg Maddux from the Cubs in 2006, so the two teams do have familiarity with each other.
Ben Sheets: The oft-injured Sheets could be the ace in the hole LA needs, but he could also be another body in need of a stretcher. His latest injury is bad news for Oakland, as Sheets looked like the most prime pitcher to be traded entering the season.
Bronson Arroyo and Aaron Harang: The Dodgers tried to swing a deal with the Reds during the offseason and add a starter in exchange for Juan Pierre. Colletti could still want one of the two, already having done extensive research on them.
Kevin Millwood: Millwood has been battered this season, but a veteran pitcher with a nice sinker is always in demand. The Dodgers might hope taking him out of the AL East and plugging him into the pitching-heavy NL West could yield favorable results.
Javier Vazquez: Another starter who could use a change of scenery, Vazquez is notorious for his no-trade clause for teams in the west. However, with his contract expiring this year, the clause could be waived. The Yankees are looking at Dan Haren, and if they can acquire him, they become much more flexible.
UPDATE: The Dodgers are also looking at the possibility of outfielders. According to Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports, the Dodgers might be inquiring on Scott Podsednik, a veteran outfielder known for his consistent .300 batting average and speed. If the Dodgers are looking for outfield depth, there are many other men out there, including:
Austin Kearns: Putting together a solid season for Cleveland.
Jim Edmonds: Not the same as he used to be, both in the field and at the plate. All depends if Milwaukee feels it’s out of the race.
Coco Crisp: Defensive wiz, though Oakland might be reluctant to give him up due to an option for 2011.
Rick Ankiel: Pitcher turned outfielder could yield interest if the Royals feel like moving him. Also has an option for next year.
Carl Crawford: While the Rays are making a big push, the club might face facts and admit they can’t keep the speedy outfielder and try to get something out of him besides two compensatory draft picks. All depends on what the Dodgers feel they have in Manny, and if Tampa Bay can acquire Jayson Werth for the stretch run.
Aside from Crawford, imagine all of the above being available into the waiver deal period.
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