Could the Dodgers really part ways with Tyler Glasnow? It’s a question that’s sparking conversations across the baseball world, and for good reason. According to ESPN’s Alden Gonzalez, the right-handed ace has been a topic of discussion in trade talks between the Dodgers and other teams. But here’s where it gets controversial: while no deal appears imminent—Gonzalez describes it as a “long shot”—the Dodgers reportedly wouldn’t be opposed to moving Glasnow. So, is this star pitcher truly untouchable? Not quite.
Nearly two years ago, the Dodgers made a splash by acquiring Glasnow from the Rays in a blockbuster trade, simultaneously locking him into a long-term contract extension. At the time, Glasnow was entering the final year of his deal with Tampa, set to earn $25 million in 2024. The extension restructured his salary, adding over $111.5 million across the 2025-2028 seasons. The deal includes $30 million payouts in 2026 and 2027, plus a $30 million club option for 2028 that, if declined, converts to a $21.5625 million player option. And this is the part most people miss: despite his talent, Glasnow’s injury history has always loomed large.
The big question then—and now—is durability. Glasnow has battled Tommy John surgery and multiple injuries throughout his eight MLB seasons, limiting his playing time. While he delivered a career-best 134 innings for the Dodgers in 2024, elbow tendinitis sidelined him after August 11. This season, shoulder inflammation restricted him to just 90 1/3 regular-season innings. Yet, when healthy, Glasnow has been exceptional. Entering his age-32 season, he boasts a 3.37 ERA, a 30.9% strikeout rate, and an 8.8% walk rate across 224 1/3 innings in 2024-25. His 1.69 ERA over 21 1/3 postseason innings this fall was pivotal in the Dodgers’ second consecutive World Series victory.
So, why would the Dodgers consider trading him? The answer lies in their pitching depth. With a rotation overflowing with talent, Glasnow is just one piece of a star-studded puzzle. While his presence has helped the Dodgers weather rotation injuries, his inability to stay healthy for a full season might make him expendable. Trading him now could allow the Dodgers to capitalize on his value, even if his contract limits potential suitors. Unlike other L.A. mega-deals, Glasnow’s contract doesn’t include deferred payments, meaning his salary is all upfront—a factor that could influence their decision.
But here’s the twist: the Dodgers aren’t just looking to cut costs. Instead, they’re likely eyeing a reallocation of resources. A Glasnow trade could bring in another high-salaried player, with Gonzalez speculating he could be part of a package for someone like Tarik Skubal. For teams wary of the high price tags or draft compensation tied to this winter’s top free-agent starters, Glasnow could be an intriguing alternative.
What do you think? Is trading Glasnow a smart move for the Dodgers, or are they risking too much by letting go of a proven talent? Let us know in the comments—this debate is far from over.
