The Los Angeles Dodgers bullpen is as healthy as it has been this season, but it is still very much in flux due to inconsistency and uncharacteristic poor performance.
The closer situation has been far from ideal, with Tanner Scott occupying that role in his first year with the Dodgers. Scott has converted just 21 of 30 save opportunities in 2025.
His ongoing struggle with allowing home runs has been an added source of frustration. The left-hander has given up 11 home runs this season at a rate of 1.9 per nine innings, both of which are career highs.
The signing of Kirby Yates, the Dodgers’ other big bullpen addition during the offseason, has also not worked out as hoped or expected.
The cumulative effect has left Dodgers manager Dave Roberts searching for relievers he can trust in high-leverage situations late in games. With little margin for error in the National League West, the competition is open to anyone who can prove themselves capable down the stretch.
“This is our pennant race right now. It started early, and we got to win every game,” he said. “And so it’s about, for me, trusting the guys, and you do that by performing and going after guys, not pitching too careful.
“Yeah, I’m going to go with the guys that I trust. And they’re all talented in their own rights, but yeah, you’re going to go with the guys you trust. So this is a great audition, opportunity, for each of them.”
Roberts believes at times there has been a confidence issue with the Dodgers’ relievers that has hindered their performances as of late.
Roberts nonetheless remains steadfast in his conviction to keep giving opportunities to the likes of Michael Kopech, Scott, Blake Treinen and Yates, until he no longer trusts that they can turn their season around. Roberts has also praised Jack Dreyer for being a bright spot throughout the year.
Dodgers close to adding
Brock Stewart made four appearances after joining the Dodgers via trade before going on the 15-day injured list due to right shoulder inflammation. The right-hander is now scheduled to begin a rehab assignment with Triple-A Oklahoma City on Tuesday and could return to the Dodgers bullpen this weekend.
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