The additions Tanner Scott and Kirby Yates while also re-signing Blake Treinen were part of the offseason spending spree the Los Angeles Dodgers went on in effort to bolster their roster for a run at winning back-to-back World Series.
However, each of the three has endured some struggles this season, with Treinen’s case being tied to only making eight appearances before going on the 15-day injured list with a right forearm strain.
Yates also spent time on the injured list but he and Scott otherwise have been saddled by inconsistencies this year. That’s been a particularly disappointment development for Scott after he emerged as the best relief pitcher who was available in free agency.
Given the state of their bullpen, the Dodgers reportedly are in the market for relief pitching as the MLB trade deadline draws near, according to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic:
After investing a combined $107 million in free-agent relievers Tanner Scott, Blake Treinen and Kirby Yates, the Dodgers are expected to pursue bullpen help, according to sources briefed on the team’s plans.
Several factors have contributed to the Dodgers leading all teams this season with 427 innings from their bullpen. The Chicago Cubs are in second place with 387.1 bullpen innings.
The Dodgers finished fifth in that category last year with 648 innings, which was 46 behind the MLB-leading Detroit Tigers.
Needing to heavily rely on the bullpen was an early concern this year for manager Dave Roberts. Relief could be on the horizon with Tyler Glasnow now back in the rotation, and Blake Snell and Treinen on respective rehab assignments.
There is also the possibility, if not likelihood, of Brusdar Graterol making his 2025 debut in the second half. The Dodgers also expect Michael Kopech to return from having right knee surgery for a torn meniscus.
Though, Evan Phillips will not be part of the outlook moving forward due to having Tommy John surgery.
Dodgers trade deadline targets?
It was previously reported the Dodgers had interest in Pete Fairbanks of the Tampa Bay Rays, or a similar-caliber relief pitcher.
That may include Minnesota Twins teammates Jhoan Duran and Griffin Jax, though it’s not yet clear if the team will be a seller at the deadline.
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