MLB Trade Deadline Update: LA Dodgers acquire Kevin Kiermaier in last-minute deal as Ryan Yarbrough joins the other side 

The Los Angeles Dodgers acquired Toronto Blue Jays CF Kevin Kiermaier in a last-minute deal as relief pitcher Ryan Yarbrough subsequently went the other way. This was yet another deal for the NL West division leaders before the MLB trade deadline on Tuesday.

In the exchange of veteran ballplayers, Kiermaier should add much-needed depth to the Dodgers unit, while Yarbough should add depth to the Blue Jays' bullpen.

The LA Dodgers had multiple needs and spots to fill before the trade deadline on Tuesday. Paying heed to their requirements, the ballclub acquired Michael Kopech, Amed Rosario and Tommy Edman.

Rosario rejoined the roster via a deal with the Tampa Bay Rays, while Edman and Kopech joined the roster as the result of a three-team trade deal between the Dodgers, St. Louis Cardinals and Chicago White Sox.

Short on playing time this season and falling down the pecking order with Detroit Tigers manager A.J. Hinch, Jack Flaherty also became a Dodgers' trade deadline acquisition.

Trading Yarbrough to Toronto was only natural since the Dodgers acquired a decent closer in the face of Kopech, who registered nine saves this season with an ERA of 4.74. Moreover, Flaherty should add much-needed depth to LA's starting rotation, with Yoshinobu Yamamoto's return uncertain and Tyler Glasnow having rejoined the roster recently.

Kevin Kiermaier has produced forgetful offensive numbers so far this season. He is in line to be used as a utility player for the Dodgers for the remainder of the season. Kiermaier has a subpar batting average of .195 and an OPS of .546 this campaign.

Kevin Kiermaier will retire with LA Dodgers at end of this season

Kevin Kiermaier has already made his retirement plans, as the veteran CF is set to hang up his cleats after the 2024 MLB season.

Talking about hanging up his cleats, he said:

"When you know, you know, and I know it’s time. Playing on this turf all these years, it’s beaten me up, but I’m so happy with how everything has played out, and it’s not done yet."

Kiermaier further reflected on being the best teammate possible:

"I’ve always wanted to be the best teammate possible. I always wanted to show my teammates, coaches, everyone, that when crap hits the fan, you can count on me. I might not get the job done up there at the plate, but I’m going to handle it like a pro."

Kevin Kiermaier will retire from his big league career after a stint with the LA Dodgers and will hope for the ultimate sendoff by claiming a maiden World Series.