More MLB: Scoreboard | Standings | Probable Pitchers | Sortable Stats | Odds
In an effort to strengthen their roster for the stretch run and postseason, the Dodgers have acquired infielder Michael Young in a trade announced by the Phillies and first reported by Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports. Philly received left-handed pitcher Rob Rasmussen in return.
Young, 36, came into Saturday hitting .272/.333/.389 (99 OPS+) with eight home runs in 125 games. He played third base almost exclusively for the Phillies, but he can fill in at first regularly and handle second in a real pinch. Defense has never been his strong suit, however.
The Dodgers have been getting perfectly fine production from Juan Uribe at third base. He came into Saturday hitting .268/.326/.395 (103 OPS+) with seven homers this year, but unlike Young, the various defensive metrics rate him as a strong defender. It'll be interesting to see how Los Angeles uses their latest pickup.
Young is owed approximately $2.9 million for the remainder of the season and will become a free agent this winter. He had a full no-trade clause and needed to approve any deal. Because he was acquired on August 31, Young will be eligible for the postseason roster. A day later and he would not have been.
At 79-55, the Dodgers have a comfortable 10.5-game lead over the Diamondbacks in the NL West. If nothing else, Young gives them a solid bat to carry on the bench while rosters are expanded in September.
