Career Background and Elite Potential
Tanner Scott established himself as an elite relief pitcher during the 2024 season with the Miami Marlins, posting a remarkable 1.18 ERA across 44 appearances. His exceptional performance earned him a spot on the All-Star Game roster, signaling his arrival among baseball's top relievers.
The Dodgers signed Scott as a free agent before the 2025 season, expecting him to anchor their bullpen and serve as the team's primary closer. His track record suggested he would be a reliable late-inning option for a championship-contending team.
2025 Season Challenges and Redemption Plans
Scott's 2025 campaign with the Dodgers fell significantly short of expectations, prompting concerns about his future with the organization. Despite his struggles, the Dodgers won the World Series with other relievers, including Roki Sasaki, stepping into prominent roles.
Rather than abandoning Scott, the Dodgers have committed to his recovery. Manager Dave Roberts indicated that physical issues and the adjustment to Los Angeles contributed to Scott's poor performance, describing 2025 as an outlier year that does not define his career trajectory.
2026 Outlook and Closer Competition
The Dodgers plan to give Scott an opportunity to compete for the closer position in 2026. General Manager Brandon Gomes stated that Scott "is one of the guys in that group" vying for the ninth-inning role, emphasizing the team's belief in his potential.
Scott's path to redemption depends on addressing his physical concerns during the offseason and proving he can return to his 2024 form. The organization's confidence in his ability to bounce back suggests he will receive significant opportunities to reclaim his role as a top-tier reliever.