Report: Dodgers, Brewers not engaged in Braun trade talks

The Los Angeles Dodgers might be keeping their eye on Ryan Braun, but a deal for the All-Star outfielder doesn't appear imminent.

It was reported last week that the Dodgers and Milwaukee Brewers have remained in contact about Braun after the two sides failed to reach a deal last summer, though Bill Shaikin of the Los Angeles Times reported Sunday that the two sides are not currently engaged in trade talks.

The Dodgers haven't had a dire need for outfield help early on this season, despite Andre Ethier and Franklin Gutierrez both residing on the disabled list.

Andrew Toles and Yasiel Puig have combined to hit seven home runs through the club's first 13 games, while top outfield prospect Cody Bellinger is hitting .395/.465/.737 with three home runs and four doubles in 10 games with Triple-A Oklahoma City.

Braun currently has a limited no-trade clause that doesn't include the Dodgers, but he will earn 10-and-5 rights next month. The thought of Braun receiving a full no-trade clause could have caused the Brewers' front office to feel a sense of urgency to complete a deal, though Braun doesn't believe it will be an issue should the club want to trade him.

"Obviously, things can change. Circumstances can change. Who knows where the future takes us? But I don't foresee (the no-trade protection) having much of an impact on anything moving forward, just because of my relationship with (Brewers owner) Mark (Attanasio), (GM) David (Stearns), and (assistant GM) Matt (Arnold)," Braun said last week.

Braun, who is under contract through 2020 with a $15 million option for 2021, is hitting .244/.380/.561 with four home runs and 11 strikeouts in 12 games.