2 weeks Ago By Joel Reuter
The 2024 Los Angeles Dodgers have not been the same runaway freight train we've seen in recent years as they reached 100 wins five times in the last seven years, but they are still perched atop the NL West standings. From a revolving door of sorts between the starting rotation and the injured list, along with the fractured hand suffered by superstar Mookie Betts, they have rarely been close to full strength this year, which speaks to the overall depth of their roster. That said, with so much talent and so much money tied up in this roster, they will almost certainly be buyers at the trade deadline, though luxury tax implications will be a looming factor in any added payroll.
Ahead, we've provided a preview for the second half of the season, complete with potential X-factors, a trade deadline outlook and a blueprint for this Dodgers team to reach the postseason. LHP Clayton Kershaw Kershaw has yet to make his 2024 debut after undergoing shoulder surgery in November, but he is on the recovery trail. The future Hall of Famer threw two innings in a simulated game on Sunday, and he is expected to make his first rehab start this coming Saturday.
He previously pitched three innings in a rehab start at Single-A on June 19, but was shut down after experiencing some lingering soreness. How much of an impact will he ultimately have on the 2024 season? SS Mookie Betts Veteran Miguel Rojas has done a fine job filling in for Betts at shortstop since he hit the injured list with a fractured.
