Dodgers make rare MLB trade with NL West division rival for former top prospect

It’s not often MLB division rivals help each other make trades. Especially in the ultra-competitive NL West. But that’s exactly what just happened as the Los Angeles Dodgers and Arizona Diamondbacks completed a rare in-division deal involving former top prospect Alek Thomas.

The Dodgers acquired Thomas from Arizona in exchange for minor league outfielder Jose Requena. Los Angeles will also take on the remaining approximately $1.4 million left on Thomas’ arbitration salary. To make room on the 40-man roster, the Dodgers had already designated Michael Siani for assignment. Thomas is expected to report to Triple-A Oklahoma City initially.

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A Fresh Start for Alek Thomas

The move gives Thomas a fresh opportunity after a disappointing run offensively with Arizona. Once viewed as one of baseball’s top prospects, Thomas debuted in 2022 with significant expectations after dominating throughout the minor leagues. The talent has always been obvious:

• Elite defensive ability in center field
• Athleticism
• Speed
• Strong instincts

But the bat simply hasn’t translated consistently at the Major League level.

The Offensive Struggles Are Real

Over parts of four MLB seasons, Thomas has struggled badly offensively, posting a career:

• .230 batting average
• .273 OBP
• .361 slugging percentage

The biggest issue has been his approach. Thomas ranks among the league leaders in swing rate and chase rate out of the strike zone. That aggressiveness has led to poor walk rates and inconsistent contact quality, particularly against breaking balls and offspeed pitches.

Why the Dodgers Are Interested Anyway

The Dodgers are one of the few organizations where reclamation projects tend to work. And Thomas still offers something valuable:

• Premium center field defense
• Athletic upside
• Minor league flexibility

Los Angeles currently lacks a true backup center fielder behind Andy Pages, making Thomas a logical depth addition. Because he still has a minor league option remaining, the Dodgers can stash him in Triple-A while trying to rebuild his offensive approach.

A Low-Risk Gamble for Los Angeles

This move feels very “Dodgers.” Take a talented former prospect whose value has cratered, put him into one of baseball’s best player development systems, and see if adjustments unlock something. If it works?
The Dodgers may have quietly added a useful outfielder for almost nothing. If it doesn’t? The financial risk and acquisition cost are minimal.

Trades between NL West rivals are rare enough on their own. But the Dodgers acquiring a former top Diamondbacks prospect makes this one especially interesting. Alek Thomas still has the talent that once made him one of baseball’s rising young players. Now the Dodgers will try to figure out if they can finally unlock it.

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