Los Angeles Dodgers Trade For Superb Defensive Outfielder, Alek Thomas

BusinessSportsMoneyLos Angeles Dodgers Trade For Superb Defensive Outfielder, Alek ThomasByBernie Pleskoff,Contributor.Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Bernie Pleskoff is a former professional Major League Baseball scout Follow AuthorMay 13, 2026, 02:00am EDTArizona Diamondbacks' Alek Thomas (5) takes batting practice before a baseball game against the Chicago Cubs, Friday, May 1, 2026, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Erin Hooley)Copyright 2026 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.Alek Thomas now plays for the Los Angeles Dodgers.Alek Thomas is a superb defensive centerfielderAlek Thomas has excellent speed.But left-handed hitter Alek Thomas has not yet broken out offensively.Thomas’ greatest skills are his superb centerfield defense, and his excellent speed in the outfield, and on the bases.He just hasn’t sustain a hit tool in the big leagues.The Arizona Diamondbacks designated Thomas for assignment on May 8, 2026.The Diamondbacks viewed rookie outfielder Ryan Waldschmidt as a good option for a 26-man roster spot. They promoted the 23-year-old Waldschmidt after Thomas was designated for assignment.On May 12, the Diamondbacks traded Thomas to the Los Angeles Dodgers, a division rival of Arizona.The Diamondbacks received very young prospect outfielder, Jose Requena in return for Thomas.MORE FOR YOUThomas comes from an excellent baseball background.Thomas’ father Allen was a strength and conditioning coach for the Chicago White Sox.Thomas also has a connection to Mexico, as his mother has roots in Sonora, and he still has family in Agua Prieta, Mexico.Thomas, who turns 27 April 28, was a 2nd round pick of the Diamondbacks in 2018. Arizona Diamondbacks' Alek Thomas, left, celebrates a win against the Toronto Blue Jays with Diamondbacks' Corbin Carroll after a baseball game, Saturday, April 18, 2026, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)Copyright 2026 The Associated Press. All rights reserved if (!window.cnxel) { window.c...