Los Angeles Dodgers' Tanner Scott left fans and team management on edge during Monday night's game against the Minnesota Twins. Scott, the team's high-profile closer, experienced discomfort in his left forearm after releasing a slider into the dirt. The injury prompted his early exit from the game and raised concerns about the team's bullpen strength.
Scott, who signed a lucrative four-year, $72 million deal during the previous offseason, has faced challenges adjusting to his role in Los Angeles. With a 4.14 ERA and a worrisome seven blown saves in 26 opportunities, Scott's performance has fallen short of expectations.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts disclosed that Scott felt a "sting" in his arm and will undergo an MRI for further evaluation. Despite initial positive results from X-rays and manual testing, Scott's potential move to the injured list adds to the team's growing list of sidelined players.
The Dodgers, already grappling with injuries to key relievers like Evan Phillips, Michael Kopech, Brusdar Graterol, and Blake Treinen, are now forced to confront the pressing need for bullpen reinforcements. The lackluster performances of Scott and another off-season addition, Kirby Yates, highlight the team's vulnerability in late-game situations.
As the MLB trade deadline looms, the Dodgers are positioned to actively pursue elite relief pitchers to strengthen their roster. Reports suggest that the team has been exploring various high-end options, with Scott's injury amplifying the urgency to bolster their bullpen.
The potential trade targets for the Dodgers encompass a range of pitchers, including closer Jhoan Durán and Griffin Jax from the Twins, Emmanuel Clase and Cade Smith from the Guardians, Ryan Helsley from the Cardinals, Mason Miller from the Athletics, David Bednar from the Pirates, and Félix Bautista from the Orioles. However, acquiring top-tier relief pitchers is expected to come at a premium cost in a competitive trade market.
Despite their initial intentions to avoid significant additions at the trade deadline, the Dodgers now face a reality where bolstering their bullpen ranks as a crucial priority. The team's bullpen struggles, evidenced by a 4.35 ERA that ranks 24th in the league, underscore the immediate need for impactful reinforcements.
As Tanner Scott's injury situation unfolds, the Dodgers must act swiftly to secure reliable late-game options and fortify their pitching staff for the postseason push. The team's aspirations to contend for a World Series title hinge on addressing their bullpen shortcomings and assembling a formidable roster capable of withstanding the challenges ahead.
