Tanner Scott Enhances Dodgers’ Stellar Bullpen
The Los Angeles Dodgers have made a major addition to their pitching staff, signing left-handed reliever Tanner Scott to a four-year, $72 million contract. This move comes just days after the Dodgers acquired Japanese right-hander Roki Sasaki, further strengthening their already formidable bullpen.
Scott has established himself as one of baseball’s most dominant relievers over the past two seasons. In 2024, he boasted a remarkable 1.75 ERA and earned his first All-Star selection. Following his trade from the Marlins to the Padres in July 2024, Scott showcased his exceptional capabilities in the playoffs, striking out seven batters in 4 1/3 scoreless innings, including four strikeouts against Shohei Ohtani.
Scott’s Impressive Statistics
Scott’s addition to the Dodgers’ bullpen provides them with a reliable back-end relief ace. He joins a talented group that includes Blake Treinen, Michael Kopech, Alex Vesia, and Brusdar Graterol, all of whom played a crucial role in the Dodgers’ World Series victory in 2024. With Scott’s presence, the Dodgers’ bullpen is poised to be even more formidable in 2025, with Scott likely slotted to close out games.
The Dodgers’ offseason moves have been nothing short of impressive, as they continue to bolster their roster with high-caliber players. In addition to Scott and Sasaki, Los Angeles has acquired Blake Snell, Michael Conforto, Hyeseong Kim, Teoscar Hernández, and Tommy Edman, while also re-signing Treinen. These strategic additions position the Dodgers as clear favorites to repeat as World Series champions in 2025.
Sasaki’s Impact and Scott’s Financial Value
The Dodgers’ pursuit of Sasaki was a major coup, securing the 23-year-old Japanese ace on a rookie contract. This move represents a significant financial advantage for Los Angeles, allowing them to allocate resources elsewhere.
Scott’s contract, on the other hand, reflects his value as one of the top free-agent relievers available. Over the past two seasons, he has ranked among the elite in whiff rate and hard-hit rate.
Scott’s exceptional fastball and slider have contributed to an impressive 51.2% ground-ball rate since 2023. His ability to induce soft contact and generate strikeouts will be invaluable to the Dodgers’ pitching staff.
Scott’s Rise to Prominence
Scott’s journey to becoming a dominant reliever has been marked by both struggles and triumphs. After being drafted by the Orioles in the sixth round of the 2014 MLB Draft, he spent five seasons with Baltimore’s bullpen, posting a 4.73 ERA. Traded to Miami before the 2022 season, Scott emerged as the Marlins’ closer, saving 20 games but also recording a 4.31 ERA.
In 2023, Scott’s performance took a significant leap forward. His improved command and increased strikeout rate propelled him to a 2.31 ERA and a .527 opponents’ OPS. Prior to last season’s Trade Deadline, he established himself as one of the most effective relievers in baseball, registering a 1.18 ERA over 45 2/3 innings.
Scott’s Success with Padres and Future with Dodgers
Scott continued his impressive form after joining the Padres in a six-player trade, posting a 1.75 ERA and a 25.7% hard-hit rate. His ability to neutralize hitters, including Shohei Ohtani, proved crucial in San Diego’s run to the National League Division Series.
The Dodgers have clearly recognized Scott’s potential, and his addition to their already formidable bullpen sets them up as strong contenders to defend their World Series title in 2025.