The Los Angeles Dodgers invested over $1 billion this winter aiming for a World Series title. Their 35-22 start has placed them 5.5 games ahead in the National League West, but with the July 30 trade deadline approaching, they need to address roster gaps. One potential target is Chicago White Sox outfielder Tommy Pham.
Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic suggested Pham could bolster the Dodgers’ struggling outfield. “Ideally, at least two of a group of four outfielders — Heyward, Pages, Outman, and Miguel Vargas — will emerge as solid contributors,” he said. “Even then, the Dodgers would be wise to explore the market for outfielders, who at the deadline generally are in ample supply. The White Sox’s Tommy Pham, a favorite of some in the organization, would be one possibility.”
Pham, who signed a one-year, $3 million deal with the White Sox, started the 2024 season late but has been productive, hitting .294/.344/.429 with three home runs, seven doubles, 12 RBI, and 17 runs scored in 128 plate appearances.
With the White Sox sitting at 15-41, they are expected to be sellers at the trade deadline. General manager Chris Getz will likely entertain offers for Pham, given his performance and contract status.
Despite significant offseason spending, the Dodgers’ outfield remains a weak spot. Their outfielders have collectively hit .204/.272/.348 in 226 plate appearances, with an 81 wRC+ ranking fourth-worst in baseball. Teoscar Hernandez has been the most productive, but other outfielders like Kike Hernandez, Jason Heyward, and Chris Taylor have struggled.
Even as a fourth outfielder, Pham could be a valuable asset for manager Dave Roberts as he aims to optimize the outfield lineup.
Pham is accustomed to midseason trades, having been traded during the regular season three times in his career. He understands the trade dynamics and seems prepared for another potential move this summer, having already experienced trades from St. Louis to Tampa Bay, Cincinnati to Boston, and the New York Mets to Arizona.
With the White Sox’s poor performance and Pham’s productive start, he remains a likely candidate for another trade, potentially to the Dodgers, as the deadline approaches.
