Dodgers Could Target Lane Thomas as Left Field Solution at Trade Deadline
The Dodgers will almost certainly make a splash at the 2025 trade deadline. That’s just what they do.
Despite assembling what might be the most talented roster in baseball history on paper, this Dodgers team has shown clear weaknesses. Their outfield has been particularly unstable, though Teoscar Hernández’s return should provide some much-needed consistency moving forward.
Left field remains problematic. Michael Conforto is hitting just .168 through 45 games, and while he might keep his job through the season, he shouldn’t be anywhere near the lineup against tough lefties. That’s where a platoon partner makes perfect sense.
The Guardians’ Lane Thomas could be that guy.
Jason Fray of Dodgers Nation recently identified Thomas as a potential trade target for LA. If that name sounds familiar, it should — Thomas launched the grand slam off Tigers ace Tarik Skubal that sent Cleveland to the ALCS last season.
“Cleveland is notorious in not spending a ton of money. Depending on who you ask, the thought of re-signing Thomas to a multi-year deal might not sound all that appetizing from the Guardians’ standpoint,” Fray wrote.
“Cleveland is right in the hunt for a playoff spot, and figures to be highly competitive in trying to win the AL Central. At the same time, without Thomas, they’ve played very well. If he continues to flounder, could the Dodgers poach him with the hopes that a new situation with different instructions may unlock something in his case?”
Thomas, 29, is currently on the injured list with a wrist issue and has struggled to a .156 average in 45 at-bats this season. But he’s established himself as a notorious slow starter, so there’s good reason to believe he’ll heat up and return to his career norm (around a 104 OPS+).
What makes Thomas particularly interesting for the Dodgers is the specific role he’d fill — crushing left-handed pitching. Many players who struggle in everyday roles thrive in these specialized platoon situations. It’s a low-risk move too, as Thomas is making $7.8 million this season and will hit free agency this winter.
The Dodgers don’t need another superstar. They need complementary pieces who can address specific weaknesses. Thomas might be exactly that kind of targeted solution for a team with championship aspirations.
