In a move that sent shockwaves through the baseball world, the Los Angeles Dodgers made a bold statement by securing the services of one of the game’s most dominant relievers. This acquisition not only bolstered their already formidable bullpen but also signaled their unwavering determination to repeat as World Series champions.
Unveiling the Dominant Force
The Dodgers’ blockbuster deal saw them land left-handed reliever Tanner Scott on a four-year, $72 million contract. Scott’s arrival gives Los Angeles a back-end relief ace, complementing an already excellent bullpen featuring Blake Treinen, Michael Kopech, Alex Vesia, and Brusdar Graterol – a group that played a pivotal role in the team’s march to the 2024 World Series title.
The Transformation Begins
Once a sixth-round pick by the Orioles in 2014, Scott’s journey to dominance was a gradual one. After stints with Baltimore and Miami, where he struggled with command issues and pedestrian numbers, Scott’s fortunes took a turn when he was traded to the Padres in 2022. It was there that he began to unlock his true potential.
Unlocking Elite Potential
In San Diego, Scott’s chase rate soared to an impressive 35.3%, the third-best mark in MLB. This newfound ability to generate swing-and-miss and induce soft contact propelled him to a remarkable 2.31 ERA and a stifling .527 opponents’ OPS in 2023. His dominance peaked leading up to the Trade Deadline, where he posted a minuscule 1.18 ERA over 45 2/3 innings.
From Underdog to Unstoppable
After being traded to the Padres, Scott’s ascent continued unabated. He finished the 2023 season with a 1.75 ERA, a mere 25.7% hard-hit rate, and an improved 8.0% walk rate – a far cry from his earlier struggles with command. His meteoric rise culminated in his first All-Star Game appearance in 2024, cementing his status as one of baseball’s premier relievers.
Dissecting the Dominance
Scott’s success can be attributed to his overpowering four-seam fastball and hard slider, both of which feature exceptional vertical drop compared to similar pitches. This movement, combined with his ability to induce ground balls at a 51.2% rate since 2023, has made him virtually unhittable. In 2024, batters mustered a mere .134 average and .179 slugging percentage against his high-90s four-seamer, ranking among the best in the league.
The Relentless Pursuit of Greatness
Over the past two seasons, Scott has ranked in the 90th percentile or better in whiff rate (34.7%) and hard-hit rate (27.5%), solidifying his status as one of the game’s premier relievers. His addition to the Dodgers’ bullpen is a testament to the team’s relentless pursuit of greatness and their unwavering commitment to building a dynasty.
Forging an Unbeatable Bullpen
With Scott joining the likes of Blake Treinen, Michael Kopech, Evan Phillips, Alex Vesia, and Ryan Brasier, the Dodgers have assembled a bullpen that promises to be a nightmare for opposing hitters. This formidable group will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in the team’s quest to repeat as World Series champions.
The Price of Dominance
The Dodgers’ acquisition of Scott came at a steep price, with the team committing $72 million over four years, including a $20 million signing bonus and $21 million in deferred payments. However, for a team with deep pockets and an insatiable hunger for success, this investment is a small price to pay for the potential rewards that Scott’s dominance could bring.
Sasaki: The Coup of the Winter
Scott’s signing is just the latest in a series of bold moves by the Dodgers this offseason. Earlier, they landed Japanese phenom Roki Sasaki, widely regarded as the winter’s best bargain, on a rookie contract. Sasaki’s addition, coupled with the acquisitions of Blake Snell, Michael Conforto, Hyeseong Kim, and the re-signings of Teoscar Hernández and Tommy Edman, have solidified the Dodgers’ status as the team to beat.
Repeat Champions? The Dodgers’ Statement of Intent
With an estimated luxury tax payroll of around $375 million – a staggering $70 million more than the second-place Philadelphia Phillies – the Dodgers have made a resounding statement of intent. Their actions this offseason have put the rest of the baseball world on notice: they are determined to become the first team since the 2000 Yankees to repeat as World Series champions. With a roster brimming with talent and a bullpen that promises to be virtually unbeatable, the Dodgers are well-positioned to make history.
