The already complicated situation in the Los Angeles Dodgers bullpen has received another devastating blow. What seemed like it couldn’t get any worse for a team already dealing with four key relievers on the injured list now faces the possible loss of its expensive left-handed reliever, Tanner Scott. This new setback has led manager Dave Roberts to share a worrying update on the player’s emotional state
Tanner Scott, who joined the Dodgers this past offseason on a four-year, $72 million contract, had to leave Monday night’s game against the Minnesota Twins after pitching just two-thirds of an inning. After walking a batter and hitting a batter, he retired with a “tingling sensation” in his forearm. After the game, Roberts did not hesitate to express his concern to the media: “Emotionally, Scott is not doing well”. The pitcher is scheduled for an MRI.
Scott’s current situation
Scott felt the “twinge” on a single pitch, which Roberts said could be a positive sign. “I’m not sure which pitch it was, but he said he felt like a twinge,” Roberts explained to reporters. “I think it was probably the pitch before I came out… He had an X-ray, he had manual tests, and both were positive. So that’s good.” Despite Scott’s departure, the Dodgers managed to secure a 5-2 victory over the Twins.
Even with flashes of brilliance, Tanner Scott has not achieved the desired consistency in the ninth inning. In 47 games, he has 19 saves, but his ERA of 4.14 is a cause for concern. Nevertheless, he has been the Dodgers’ primary closer and his possible absence would seriously aggravate the already existing roster crisis. Roberts emphasized the urgency: “We were already looking for bullpen help. Now we might need a legitimate arm for the end of the game.”
The Dodgers’ priority
The Dodgers have been going through an unstable time in July, with seven losses in their last nine games before the 2025 All-Star break. Injuries have decimated their pitching staff, especially the bullpen, making it the main concern.
With the trade deadline just days away, Scott’s injury could force the Dodgers to be even more aggressive buyers in the market. Various analysts have already pointed to them as strong candidates to seek high-level relievers. The need to incorporate a strong arm in the final part of the game is now more critical than ever for the Dodgers to maintain their postseason aspirations.
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