The Dodgers shift their reinforcement strategy, turning to the trade market for Shohei Ohtani’s classic World Baseball Classic teammate, Lars Nootbaar?

In pursuit of a third consecutive World Series title, the Los Angeles Dodgers have made new moves in their roster strengthening plans. According to Dodgers-focused media outlet Dodgers Way today, with stalled progress in acquiring big-name free agents like Kyle Tucker and Cody Bellinger, the team is planning a "restructuring" of their outfield lineup.

The report indicates that the Dodgers are expected to keep only Teoscar Hernández in the outfield, while the left field position requires fresh reinforcement. Latest updates reveal the team has set its sights on the St. Louis Cardinals’ Japanese-American outfielder Lars Nootbaar—who was also Shohei Ohtani’s teammate on Japan’s team during the last World Baseball Classic.

Dodgers Way analysis states: “Nootbaar can defend all outfield positions. Although his batting performance has been inconsistent, he is a player who can provide steady contributions. His addition could help address the Dodgers’ lack of depth in left-handed outfield bench players.”

Entering his fifth professional season, Nootbaar currently holds a cumulative batting line of .242/.341/.406. Scouts describe him as a player capable of delivering double-digit home runs in a single season along with consistent on-base skills.

Besides Nootbaar, other outfielders targeted by the Dodgers in trades include Steven Kwan from the Cleveland Guardians, Brendan Donovan of the Cardinals, and Byron Buxton from the Minnesota Twins.

The Dodgers have signed Asian players for two consecutive seasons. If they successfully trade for Nootbaar this time, combined with ongoing rumors about signing the powerful Japanese hitter Munetaka Murakami, the Dodgers’ “Asian squad” could be further expanded.