Dodgers Trade: Team acquires Lance Lynn and Joe Kelly from White Sox in exchange for Trayce Thompson and Nick Nastrini

The Los Angeles Dodgers have made a significant move in bolstering their pitching rotation, acquiring Lance Lynn and Joe Kelly from the Chicago White Sox. In exchange, the White Sox receive outfielder Trayce Thompson and two promising right-handed pitching prospects.

Lynn's trade to the Dodgers comes amid a somewhat challenging season for the veteran pitcher. Despite a 6.18 ERA through 20 starts, he has showcased moments of brilliance, including a franchise-record 16-strikeout game and several impressive seven-inning appearances.

The 2024 season marks the final year of Lynn's contract, with the Dodgers having the option to pick up his $18.5 million club option or opt for a $1 million buyout.

The White Sox originally acquired Lance Lynn in 2021 in a trade with the Texas Rangers. After an All-Star season, they extended him to a two-year deal worth $38 million, including a club option for 2024.

For the Dodgers, this trade adds experienced arms to their pitching staff, providing depth and expertise to aid their pursuit of a successful season. On the other hand, the White Sox receive promising prospects and an outfielder in Trayce Thompson, shaping their future roster.

Why did Dodgers trade for Lance Lynn and Joe Kelly?

Chicago White Sox v Los Angeles Angels

By trading for Lance Lynn and Joe Kelly, the Los Angeles Dodgers addressed their pressing need for starting pitching. LA was among the most aggressive suitors despite Lynn's underwhelming performance this season, highlighting its dedication to bolstering its rotation.

The Dodgers are currently in first place in the National League West and sit an impressive 15 games above .500. However, they have had issues with their pitching staff.

Their pitching difficulties have been made worse by the struggles of Julio Urias, the absence of Dustin May for the season, and the injury to Clayton Kershaw.

Additionally, Noah Syndergaard's struggles resulted in his trade to the Cleveland Guardians, while Walker Buehler is still recovering from Tommy John surgery.

As a result, the Dodgers have relied more heavily than they had anticipated on rookie starters Emmet Sheehan, Bobby Miller and Michael Grove.

However, the bullpen has improved, sporting a major-league-best 2.67 ERA this month, largely as a result of standout efforts from relievers like Caleb Ferguson, Ryan Brasier, Phil Bickford, Yency Almonte and Brusdar Graterol.

The Dodgers have now strengthened their pitching staff, solidified their status as contenders and addressed the issues they had with their rotation by acquiring Lance Lynn and Joe Kelly.