Guardians Could Explore Dodgers Trade to Bolster Thin Pitching Staff
The Guardians may have a chance to address one of their biggest needs before the trade deadline, even if it requires parting with a player who still has upside.
Last June, left-hander Eric Lauer turned in an impressive outing against Cleveland, tossing 5 1/3 strong innings for the Blue Jays at Progressive Field. The performance was especially frustrating for the Guardians, who had the opportunity to sign the Elyria, Ohio, native in free agency but passed. Now, Cleveland could get another chance to bring him home.
According to The Athletic’s Katie Woo, the Dodgers have made Lauer available in trade discussions as they look to strengthen their infield, catching depth, and starting rotation.
Since joining Los Angeles in late May, Lauer has bounced back from an uneven start to the season in Toronto and has emerged as a valuable multi-role pitcher. His ability to work as both a starter and long reliever could make him an ideal addition to a Guardians pitching staff searching for depth.
Could Bo Naylor Be the Key?
One possible trade chip for Cleveland is catcher Bo Naylor.
Naylor’s future with the Guardians appears uncertain, but he still possesses enough talent and team control to interest a club like the Dodgers. A one-for-one swap involving Naylor and Lauer could make sense for both organizations.
For Cleveland, the move would add a dependable arm capable of filling multiple roles. For Los Angeles, Naylor would provide much-needed catching depth while All-Star Will Smith continues to recover from neck inflammation.
With rookie Dalton Rushing handling the starting duties, the Dodgers have relied on career minor leaguers Chuckie Robinson and Eliezer Alfonzo as backup options. Naylor would offer a higher-upside alternative, and because he still has two minor league options remaining, Los Angeles would have the flexibility to keep him on the major league roster before sending him to Triple-A once Smith returns.
A Calculated Gamble Worth Considering
The Dodgers have built a reputation for identifying undervalued talent and maximizing player development. Their success stories—including Max Muncy’s transformation into an All-Star—highlight the organization’s ability to unlock potential in players whose value has dipped. Lauer’s resurgence this season is another example.
Since arriving in Los Angeles, the left-hander has posted a 3.35 ERA across 45 2/3 innings while proving capable of handling a variety of pitching roles. In one relief appearance, he even delivered six scoreless innings, showcasing the versatility that could appeal to Cleveland.
The Guardians’ need for pitching depth has only grown following Shawn Armstrong’s season-ending injury. Whether Lauer slots into the rotation or serves as a bulk reliever, he would provide another reliable option for a staff that could use reinforcements.
Trading Naylor to an organization known for developing talent may not be an easy decision, but acquiring a proven, versatile arm at a reasonable cost could be the type of calculated move Cleveland should seriously evaluate before the deadline.
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