While the Los Angeles Dodgers have already done the majority of their work to improve roster, adding a high-leverage reliever remains one area left to address this offseason.
Tanner Scott is the top available arm, and he’s been connected to the Dodgers at multiple points throughout the winter. There was even said to be mutual interest between the two sides.
However, he also has multiple suitors, including the Atlanta Braves and Chicago Cubs. With widespread interest in Scott, he should be making his decision soon.
According to Jon Morosi of MLB Network, Scott has multiple long-term offers and could decide on one this weekend:
The Cubs are among the top remaining suitors for Tanner Scott, sources say.
Scott could decide from among several multiyear offers this weekend. @MLBNetwork
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) January 18, 2025
The New York Mets were also among the teams with interest in Scott and had a meeting with him. But they seem to be out of the mix after signing A.J. Minter to a two-year contract.
Scott reportedly been seeking a contract of four years with an average annual value of around $20 million. Getting to $80 million in total value may be unlikely as teams generally hesitate to pay relievers, but as one of the top high-leverage arms in baseball, he will receive a significant payday.
Projections have had Scott signing a multi-year deal with an average value of around $15 million.
The southpaw is coming off an excellent season with the Miami Marlins and San Diego Padres that saw him post a combined 1.75 ERA, 2.92 FIP and 1.13 WHIP in 72 innings. It was the second consecutive year Scott recorded an ERA below 2.35 with at least 70 innings pitched.
Does Tanner Scott make sense for the Dodgers?
With the Dodgers pursuing a high-leverage arm, there are none better than Scott that they could acquire. They also saved a significant sum by signing Roki Sasaki rather than signing a veteran starting pitcher, which could allow them to pursue Scott to a higher degree.
In addition, the Dodgers’ use of deferrals could help Scott get to the target number he’s looking for in a contract.
If he’s signed, Scott would immediately become the best option in an already-strong Dodgers bullpen, giving manager Dave Roberts another weapon at his disposal late in games.
However, the Dodgers could also look for more budget-friendly options with their already significant payroll.
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