As the 2026 MLB trade deadline approaches, the Los Angeles Dodgers continue exploring ways to strengthen the roster for another World Series push. While much of the speculation has focused on adding pitching, a new MLB insider report has connected the organization to a far more unexpected possibility. It would result in one of the most surprising blockbuster deals of the deadline and have significant implications for the Baltimore Orioles.
MLB Insider Links Los Angeles Dodgers to Surprising Baltimore Orioles Trade
Aug 27, 2024; Los Angeles, California, USA; Baltimore Orioles catcher Adley Rutschman (35) on deck before hitting against the Los Angeles Dodgers during the third inning at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY SportsCredit: USA TODAY Sports via Reuters Connect
The Dodgers are coming off a major trade for Detroit Tigers ace Tarik Skubal, but they aren’t done yet. Los Angeles has other needs, such as catching depth due to Will Smith‘s injury. Now, an MLB insider has connected the Dodgers to a stunning potential trade with the Orioles. It would shake MLB.
Los Angeles and Baltimore have had trade discussions involving catcher Adley Rutschman ahead of Monday’s deadline, as reported by MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand. According to the MLB insider, it is “unlikely” that the Dodgers would make a move for a catcher like Rutschman. However, it’s hard to overlook the organization right now.
Despite trading for Skubal, the Dodgers have plenty of prospects that would be appealing to Baltimore. Rutschman is under contract through the 2027 MLB season, so it would be a larger trade package in return. Ultimately, it might depend on Smith’s health moving forward.
So, why would Rutschman be a fit with the Dodgers? While it would be surprising, there is reason to believe he would be a good fit with the Dodgers colors.
Why Adley Rutschman Would Be a Fit for Los Angeles
Rutschman currently sits on the 10-day injured list with a wrist injury, but it won’t keep him sidelined for long. The 28-year-old catcher is having an All-Star season with a .251 average and .764 OPS with eight home runs. It has been a great campaign after struggling the last two seasons.
Smith’s injury opens the door for Rutschman to come to Los Angeles. The Dodgers’ starting catcher has been out for almost two months, recovering from an inflamed disc in his neck. Dalton Rushing has done well in his absence, but Rutschman’s bat and above-average defensive performance as a catcher would be an upgrade.
It might be hard to rely on Smith’s health in 2026, meaning Rutschman would slot in as the starting catcher for the rest of 2026. It would give the Dodgers a glut of catchers with Rutschman, Smith, and Rushing in 2027, but it depends on how badly the organization wants to win a third straight World Series.
While unlikely, the Dodgers could push for Rutschman to pair with Skubal at the 2026 MLB trade deadline. Would the Orioles and Dodgers be able to complete a deal?
Could the Dodgers and Orioles Actually Complete the Deal?
Jun 30, 2026; West Sacramento, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts (30) looks on before a baseball game against the Athletics at Sutter Health Park. Mandatory Credit: Scott Marshall-Imagn ImagesCredit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
The Orioles are looking for controllable starting pitching, and the Dodgers have plenty of that available. After trading for Skubal, Los Angeles could offer Emmet Sheehan and one more pitching prospect for Rutschman. Sheehan, who is under contract through 2030, would give Baltimore a high-upside option in the rotation.
Whether another team can do better than Sheehan is to be determined. The New York Yankees and Tampa Bay Rays have just as much starting pitching in their system as the Dodgers. More likely than not, other teams with a true need at catcher will pursue Rutschman at a more aggressive level ahead of Monday.
It would be in Baltimore’s best interest to move Rutschman. The 28-year-old catcher is not expected to be a part of the Orioles to start the 2027 MLB season, meaning they should move him for more value now. The Dodgers may not be likely, but don’t disocunt their ability to go “all-in” on players.
Should the Los Angeles Dodgers trade for Baltimore Orioles catcher Adley Rutschman?
Read More: New York Yankees Rumored to Consider Stunning Reunion at 2026 MLB Trade Deadline
Austin Konenski is a writer at Sportsnaut, covering the NHL, MLB, NFL, NBA, and more. His work can also … More about Austin Konenski