Dodgers Make a Push, even with a loss

The LA Dodgers are looking to distance themselves from the Colorado Rockies and San Francisco Giants for good, both on the field and in their lineup. Last night, the National League West leaders acquired Jon Garland from the Arizona Diamondbacks and Jim Thome from the Chicago White Sox.

The Dodgers clearly are not waiting for anyone to catch them. Garland helps solidify the back end of their rotation, which has struggled at times this year. Thome is an interesting pick up with James Loney entrenched at first base for LA. Thome gives them a lot of pop off the bench and allows Joe Torre the opportunity to mix and match against his opponent's bullpen late in the game.

This will dimish Thome's fantasy baseball value. He is no longer a full time DH and most likely will see his at bats drop drastically. For any team in a playoff push or already in the playoffs in his/her league, this could be a death blow to your chances.