The Los Angeles Dodgers have been dealt a blow with the news that shortstop Mookie Betts and right-hander Yoshinobu Yamamoto will be out of action for weeks or even months. However, despite the absence of these two key players, the Dodgers have the depth and talent to weather the storm.

In Sunday's victory over the Royals, Yamamoto suffered a strained right rotator cuff and had to leave the game in the fourth inning. Meanwhile, Betts was hit by a fastball in the hand, resulting in a fracture to his left hand. While these injuries are not considered season-ending, they will undoubtedly test the Dodgers' roster.

One of the biggest advantages the Dodgers have is their formidable offense. Even without Betts, who is regarded as their best player, the lineup boasts three MVP winners in Shohei Ohtani, Freddie Freeman, and perennial All-Star Will Smith. Ohtani and Freeman have been on a hot streak lately, with Ohtani hitting four home runs in the past week and Freeman carrying an impressive .962 OPS over his last 30 games. Additionally, Smith and outfielder Teoscar Hernández have the potential to play larger roles in run production during Betts' absence.

Pitching-wise, the loss of Yamamoto is a setback for the Dodgers. Prior to his injury, he had been performing well with a 2.34 ERA in 13 starts. However, there are potential solutions within the rotation to help cover for his absence. Righty Tyler Glasnow has been a dominant force for the team, and rookie Gavin Stone has emerged as one of the best starters in the National League as of late. The return of Walker Buehler and Bobby Miller, along with the potential for Clayton Kershaw later in the season, gives the Dodgers some reassurance on the pitching front.

Currently sitting at a comfortable 45-29 record with an 8.5-game lead in the NL West, the Dodgers have a strong foundation to sustain themselves while waiting for Betts and Yamamoto to return. However, their front office, led by Andrew Friedman, is unlikely to rest on their laurels. With the trade deadline approaching in six weeks, the Dodgers are actively exploring ways to improve the roster through potential trades.

In the meantime, veteran infielder Miguel Rojas will take over the shortstop duties until Betts' return, and the Dodgers may seek enhancements to their infield, particularly with the lack of production from Gavin Lux at second base.

Realistically, Yamamoto's shoulder injury poses a greater concern, as shoulder injuries can be complex and require significant healing time. The Dodgers may need to scout the starter market, with potential trade options like Jack Flaherty from the Tigers, Tyler Anderson from the Angels, or Garrett Crochet from the White Sox.

While the injuries to Betts and Yamamoto present a challenge for the Dodgers, their deep roster and proactive front office give them confidence in their ability to navigate these setbacks. As they continue to dominate their division, it is likely that the Dodgers will make another significant move to reinforce their chances of a successful campaign.