The Los Angeles Dodgers made another significant move this offseason, agreeing to a 4-year, $72 million contract with left-handed closer Tanner Scott. The 30-year-old Scott had an impressive 2024 season, posting a 9-6 record with a 1.74 ERA in 72 appearances for both the Miami Marlins and San Diego Padres. Over his eight seasons in the majors, including stints with the Orioles, Marlins, and Padres, Scott has a 31-24 record with a 3.56 ERA and 55 saves. MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand was the first to report the news on Sunday.
Scott was one of the top relief pitchers available in a slow-moving free-agent market this offseason. The Dodgers had previously explored trade options for other closers, including Devin Williams, before the right-hander was traded to the New York Yankees in December. The Chicago Cubs reportedly offered Scott a multi-year deal valued at more than the $43 million they gave to Craig Kimbrel in 2019. The Toronto Blue Jays were also among the teams interested in signing Scott, but he ultimately chose Los Angeles, just two days after the Dodgers won the bidding for Japanese pitcher Roki Sasaki.
Last season, Scott recorded 18 of his 22 saves with the Marlins, striking out 53 batters in 45.2 innings. His strong performance earned him a spot on the National League All-Star team and made him one of the most sought-after players during the trade deadline. After being traded to the Padres, Scott continued to impress, finishing the season with a 2.73 ERA and a 3-1 record in 28 games. He struck out 31 batters and walked only nine in 26.1 innings while serving as a key setup man for closer Robert Suarez.
Scott began his career with the Baltimore Orioles, where he played from 2017 to 2021. During his time in Baltimore, he posted a 9-8 record with a 4.73 ERA in 170 appearances, striking out 208 batters in 156 innings. As the Dodgers prepare for the 2025 season, Scott’s addition strengthens their bullpen. With pitchers like Scott, Evan Phillips, Michael Kopech, and Blake Treinen in the mix, the Dodgers are likely to continue using a committee approach to closing games.
Scott’s move to the Dodgers is part of the team’s broader efforts to improve their roster this offseason. With the bullpen options they now have, including the potential for multiple players to earn saves, the Dodgers’ pitching staff looks poised for success in the coming season.
