Dodgers strengthen World Series chances with bevy of moves at MLB trade deadline

The World Series favorite Dodgers bolstered their title chances with a series of moves ahead of Tuesday’s MLB trade deadline.

Los Angeles remained at the top of the odds board at DraftKings Sportsbook, shortening their odds from +330 to +300 to win the 2024 World Series after acquiring Jack Flaherty, Tommy Edman, Michael Kopech, Amed Rosario and Kevin Kiermaier. 

The Dodgers opted to add depth to their star-studded roster rather than bring in another big name next to Shohei Ohtani, Mookie Betts, Freddie Freeman and Co.

Flaherty, who had a 2.95 ERA in 18 starts for the Tigers before the trade, will provide some much-needed innings for an injury-riddled Dodgers rotation. 

Edman and Rosario figure to fill in across the Dodgers’ infield, which has also been hit with the injury bug, and perhaps start at shortstop, depending on Betts’ future at the position. 

Hard-throwing reliever Kopech and defensive-minded outfielder Kiermaier will help fill out their roster for the stretch run. 

The Phillies (+500) remain the second-favorites to win it all. 

Philadelphia was also active this week, adding relievers Carlos Estévez and Tanner Banks to beef up their shaky bullpen. 

After trading for Jazz Chisholm Jr. over the weekend, the Yankees, who have the third-best World Series odds (+550), added right-handed reliever Mark Leiter Jr. in a deal with the Cubs for two prospects. 

The Orioles (+750), the Bronx Bombers’ biggest competition in the American League, bulked up their rotation, trading for Zach Eflin last weekend and Trevor Rogers on Tuesday. 

This year’s deadline, which lacked in big names being moved, was as much about the players that stood pat rather than changed teams. 

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Aces Garrett Crochet of the White Sox and Tarik Skubal of the Tigers both stayed in their respective cities after being in trade rumors throughout the summer. 

If dealt, both pitchers would have provided a shake-up to the odds board that failed to come true this trade season.