TRADE (Yes, An Actual Post-Deadline Trade): Guardians, Dodgers Swing Deal

So you thought the trade deadline had passed and no more deals could take place in the majors? Well, yes and no. The official deadline was Tuesday at 6pm. But in a loophole, players who have not been on a 40-man roster or a major league injured list this season are still eligible to be traded.

And with that, Cleveland has acquired 11-year veteran outfielder Kole Calhoun for the Los Angeles Dodgers for cash considerations. Although the 35-year-old has a Gold Glove in his past (2015), he'll likely be trying to fill the gaping hole left by the placement of super-productive DH Josh Naylor on the IL.

Both Josh Naylor (right oblique strain) and Tyler Freeman (right shoulder strain) are headed to the injured list.

OF Kole Calhoun has been acquired from the Los Angeles Dodgers in exchange for cash considerations.

Infielder Jose Tena has been called up from AAA Columbus.

— Ryan Lewis (@ByRyanLewis) August 4, 2023

Naylor (15 HR, 79 RBIs) is out with a strained oblique—never good—so they're hoping that the once-slugging Calhoun can fill the void. Although the veteran hasn't been on a major leaguer roster this season, he was posting a .906 OPS at Triple-A with 46 RBIs in 58 games. 

Calhoun had a 33-HR season in the majors as recently as 2019 with the Los Angeles Angels, with whom he spent his first eight big league seasons. The Guards are hoping he still has something left in the tank.  

Photo: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports