SCHERZER, TURNER TRADED TO LA!
The Los Angeles Dodgers acquired pitcher Max Scherzer and infielder Trea Turner from the Washington Nationals for catcher Keibert Ruiz, pitchers Josiah Gray and Gerardo Carrillo, and outfielder Donovan Casey.
What does it give the Los Angeles Dodgers
This might be the biggest trade of this year's deadline. Scherzer is a true ace who has battled injuries this season, but he remains a game changer. He should help a Dodgers squad that is currently without both Clayton Kershaw and Trevor Bauer. In Turner, the Dodgers get yet another impact hitter for their lineup. He is a shortstop signed through 2022, so he could take over for Corey Seager (who becomes a free agent at the end of 2021). For now, Turner may be used all over. LA paid dearly to land two stars with this trade, but it might be worth it.
What does it give the Washington Nationals
To get Scherzer AND Turner in the same deal, you have to pay a steep price. LA did just that because Ruiz and Gray are top-notch prospects. Ruiz may take over as the everyday catcher immediately, while Gray is a strong candidate to join Washington's rotation. Carrillo and Casey round out a very strong package of talent headed to D.C. The Nationals are clearly retooling and reshaping the roster, if not completely rebuilding at this time. Losing Scherzer and Turner could smart for some time, but the Nats did get a lot of quality in return.
Fantasy impact
Everybody involved with this trade should see an uptick in value. Scherzer may be even more dominant pitching at Dodger Stadium, while Turner could become LA's future shortstop ahead of Seager, which may help keep Turner's fantasy stock at an elite level. Ruiz was blocked in LA, but should take over behind the plate in Washington and become a fantasy stud. Gray should also be a nice replacement for Scherzer (eventually) in Washington, while Carrillo and Casey also improve their stock after the trade.
