Michael Conforto’s Dodgers Future in Jeopardy Amid Trade Rumors and Slump
The Los Angeles Dodgers are a team synonymous with dominance, depth, and decision-making that usually pays off. But in the case of Michael Conforto, that winning formula hasn’t clicked—at least not yet. When the Dodgers signed Conforto to a one-year, $17 million deal, there was a lot of optimism. After all, he had put together a strong 2024 campaign with the Giants and seemed poised to thrive in LA's well-oiled machine. But what’s unfolded has been a far cry from expectations.
To put it bluntly, Conforto has struggled at the plate. Through 71 games, he's batting just .173 with a .602 OPS and a concerning -1.0 bWAR. For a team with postseason—and World Series—aspirations, that kind of production from a starting corner outfielder simply doesn’t cut it. And while he did show a flicker of hope with a recent multi-hit performance against the Rockies, it might be too little, too late.
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Manager Dave Roberts hasn’t minced words about the situation either. He’s emphasized that while he’s shown faith in Conforto, the team is always exploring ways to improve. The trade deadline is approaching fast, and that means decisions will have to be made. Roberts even said, “It’s critical... we’re going to continue to look for ways to get better as a ballclub.”
One of those ways could be a high-profile trade. According to Yahoo Sports’ Russell Dorsey, the Dodgers might target Pirates outfielder Bryan Reynolds. Reynolds, locked into a $106.75 million contract through 2032, would be a bold acquisition. While his numbers aren’t eye-popping this season—just a .709 OPS and -0.3 bWAR—he’s still a switch-hitting, defensively capable option who could offer more consistency than Conforto.
It’s a gamble, of course. The Pirates aren’t known for splurging or holding onto expensive assets, so LA might have a shot at prying Reynolds away. But would the Dodgers really want to commit to nearly six more years of salary for marginal improvement? That’s the million-dollar—or in this case, $100 million—question.
Beyond Reynolds, the Dodgers have internal options as well. Players like Hyeseong Kim and Tommy Edman provide versatility, speed, and steady defense, making Conforto’s role even shakier. If Conforto can’t find his swing—and fast—he might find himself either benched or shipped out.
Right now, the Dodgers are sitting atop the NL West, tied with the Tigers for the best record in baseball. They're in a strong position, but they know better than most that standing still can be costly. As the All-Star break looms and the deadline draws closer, the pressure is on. Michael Conforto's next few weeks could very well determine the rest of his season—and maybe even his future in MLB.
In the end, baseball’s a business, and the Dodgers are in the business of winning. If Conforto can’t produce, someone else will.
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