LYNN AND KELLY LA BOUND
The Los Angeles Dodgers acquired pitchers Lance Lynn and Joe Kelly from the Chicago White Sox for outfielder Trayce Thompson, and pitchers Nick Nastrini and Jordan Leasure.
What does it give the Los Angeles Dodgers
The Dodgers bolster their pitching staff with two right-handers who strike out a lot of batters. Lynn has struggled this year, allowing the most hits and home runs in the American League. However, he has also posted the highest strikeout rate of his career (10.8 K/9). The Dodgers are hoping Lynn can keep striking out hitters at that rate, while limiting the damage. He may become a veteran right-handed option for their rotation. Kelly is back for his second tour of duty in LA. He has 41 strikeouts in 29 innings in '23, and should help a shaky Dodgers bullpen.
What does it give the Chicago White Sox
Thompson has been on the injured list for most of the '23 season. When healthy, he is a platoon bat that sees most of his playing time against left-handed pitchers. It is hard to see where he fits in a crowded outfield picture with the White Sox. Nastrini is the better prospect acquired here, and is the prize piece in this deal. He has the upside to eventually become a frontline starter if he reaches his potential. Leasure is a relief pitcher who has accumulated nine saves at Double-A ball this season. He profiles as a high-leverage reliever in MLB.
Fantasy impact
Even with his struggles this season, Lynn has been a valuable fantasy option due to all of his strikeouts. If playing for a contending team rejuvenates him, he could become even more valuable. As for Kelly, he may not pitch in the eighth and ninth innings with the Dodgers. That limits his appeal. Nastrini is interesting because now he is not blocked by as many young starters in Chicago. That may allow him to reach the majors faster. Be on the lookout for his advancements through the minors. Leasure is now on the radar, too. Thompson is off the radar until further notice.
