Los Angeles Dodgers face trade speculation and injury setbacks

The Los Angeles Dodgers are contemplating moving top prospect outfielder Zyhir Hope before the MLB trade deadline, according to Bleacher Report columnist Joel Reuter. Hope, the franchise’s No. 2 prospect and a 2023 11th‑round pick, is hitting .272/.341/.472 with 13 homers in Double‑A play.

Meanwhile, manager Dave Roberts confirmed that All‑Star catcher Will Smith will miss at least six more games after being placed on the injured list with neck inflammation. Roberts also hinted that a young right‑handed starter, who holds a 5.32 ERA and a –0.4 bWAR, could lose his spot in the rotation. Catcher Dalton Rushing, who has taken over catching duties, admitted embarrassment over a recent dugout dispute with Shohei Ohtani.

The Dodgers currently lead Major League Baseball with a 52‑29 record, a position that keeps them in strong postseason contention.