The Los Angeles Dodgers are preparing for a 2026 MLB season where expectations and objectives remain the same – they want to win the World Series again. To achieve that, they’re hoping their players perform at their peak and, if possible, put behind them a 2025 season that proved complicated for some.
One key profile they’re looking to rebound is reliever Tanner Scott, who drew heavy criticism after signing a $72 million contract in the offseason but delivered a highly inconsistent year. He finished with a 4.74 ERA and led MLB in blown saves (10).
To make matters worse, a bizarre lower-body injury kept him out of the MLB playoffs, forcing manager Dave Roberts to improvise in the Dodgers bullpen – for example, relying on Roki Sasaki.
Now, the hope is that things turn around for Scott and he arrives fully healthy for the start of Spring Training.
Dodgers Front Office Stance on Tanner Scott
President of baseball operations Andrew Friedman specifically addressed Tanner Scott, betting on the pitcher’s bounce-back season in 2026 and viewing him as a vital piece in the Dodgers bullpen. He shared this with SportsNet LA.
“First and foremost, obviously he had the injury during the playoffs. But he loved winning. It’s fun to see guys’ reaction after you win. He loved it, and I think as motivated as he was, I think it added even a little bit more. He’s hungry. He’s hungry to get back out there and be a big part of what we do in 2026, and I would definitely bet on him.”
Scott will step into a situation where he can benefit from the Dodgers’ elite pitching staff, plus the addition of Edwin Díaz, which will reduce the pressure of carrying the closer role.
If this bet on Tanner Scott pays off, the Los Angeles Dodgers could truly be unbeatable.
Read the full article here
