The Los Angeles Dodgers have made a roster move to shake things up, acquiring outfielder Alek Thomas from the Arizona Diamondbacks in a trade announced Tuesday. The deal sends outfield prospect Jose Requena to Arizona, giving both teams a fresh start.
Thomas, 26, has struggled at the plate this season, hitting just .181 with two home runs and 10 RBIs in 28 games. The Diamondbacks designated him for assignment last Friday, opening the door for the Dodgers to swoop in. Despite his slow start, Thomas brings a solid defensive reputation and a career .230 average over five MLB seasons. Last year, he showed flashes of potential, batting .249 with nine homers and 38 RBIs in 143 games.
Selected in the second round of the 2018 MLB Draft, Thomas signed a one-year, $1.9 million contract with Arizona in January to avoid arbitration. Now, he'll look to reignite his career in Los Angeles, where the Dodgers are hoping his left-handed bat can add depth to their outfield.
On the flip side, the Diamondbacks receive Requena, a 17-year-old prospect who signed a minor league deal with the Dodgers in January. He has yet to make his professional debut, but his youth and potential make him an intriguing piece for Arizona's future.
To clear a spot for Thomas on their 40-man roster, the Dodgers designated outfielder Michael Siani for assignment. The move comes as Los Angeles looks to snap a three-game losing streak. Currently sitting at 24-17, the Dodgers are second in the National League West, just half a game behind the division-leading San Diego Padres. They'll host the San Francisco Giants on Tuesday night at Dodger Stadium.
The Diamondbacks, meanwhile, hold a 20-20 record and sit in third place. They'll face the Texas Rangers in Arlington on Tuesday, looking to build momentum with their new-look roster.
