BETH HARRIS
AP Sports Writer
LOS ANGELES (AP) — The NL West-leading Dodgers stood pat at Thursday’s trade deadline, making no major moves as they try to stretch their lead in the division race.
Their only new addition was infielder Darwin Barney, acquired from the Cubs on Monday.
That doesn’t mean the Dodgers won’t be active in August, when they have a history of making deals.
But for now general manager Ned Colletti said the team can win with its current roster.
“Had we done something of major consequence it doesn’t guarantee you’re going to win,” he said.
Colletti said the Dodgers had a small list of players they were interested in, but other teams wanted top-level prospects Joc Pederson, Corey Seager and Julio Urias that Los Angeles wasn’t willing to trade.
“This franchise’s greatest years were really built around people who came up in the system,” Colletti said.
The Dodgers talked to Boston, who sent pitcher Jon Lester to the Oakland Athletics, but the Red Sox’s demands were too high, Colletti said.
Right fielder Matt Kemp stayed put after his name had been bandied about, and his mood appeared lighter after the trade deadline had passed. He’s been part of a crowded outfield, but has stood out since the All-Star break. Kemp came into Thursday night’s game leading the NL with a .436 batting average and .744 slugging percentage.
“We’re good,” he said. “I’m playing.”
Kemp had two major surgeries last year, and has been working to regain his stroke and speed.
“We need Matt Kemp to help our club,” Colletti said. “Right-handed power is tough to find. He was willing to make adjustments with his stance, and I felt it was worth giving him a chance.”
Starters Josh Beckett and Dan Haren were mentioned in trade speculation because of their recent struggles, but didn’t go anywhere.
“Our starting pitching, no matter how you hold it up to the light, it’s a real good staff,” Colletti said.
One of the biggest trades Colletti has pulled off since taking over in 2006 occurred in August. He acquired Josh Beckett, Carl Crawford, Adrian Gonzalez and Nick Punto from Boston two years ago. All but Punto are still with the team.
Some of his other August acquisitions included Greg Maddux in 2008, Jon Garland in 2009 and Michael Young last year.
“We may know more then as to what we need,” Colletti said about the new month.
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