"After last winter's failed $72-million Tanner Scott deal, the Dodgers seek another closer but could be hesitant on long-term commitments for an area as volatile as relief pitching. The team shows interest in two-time All-Star Devin Williams and others, but may prefer shorter deals despite potential multi-year offers from competitors. With returning arms like Brusdar Graterol and Evan Phillips, the Dodgers could add internally or pursue a proven closer if the market aligns."
"The main reason why: Tanner Scott 's struggles after landing a lucrative four-year, $72-million pact last winter. Scott's signing represented the second-largest contract, by guaranteed money, the Dodgers had ever given to a relief pitcher (only behind the five-year, $80 million deal closer Kenley Jansen got in 2017). It was a high-risk, high-reward move that, at least in Year 1, quickly felt like a bust."
"Last offseason, the Dodgers swung big in their offseason pursuit of impact bullpen additions. After largely striking out, however, they might now have to decide if they're comfortable doing it again. The Dodgers don't have glaring needs this winter, but the back end of the bullpen is one area they will look to upgrade. Although the team has ample relief depth, it has no clear-cut closer as it enters 2026."
The Dodgers enter 2026 without a clear-cut closer and view the back end of the bullpen as an area to upgrade. Last offseason's high-cost reliever signings underperformed: Tanner Scott posted a 4.74 ERA, converted 23 of 33 save opportunities and did not pitch in the postseason, while Kirby Yates had a 5.23 ERA and faced injuries. The team has interest in established arms such as two-time All-Star Devin Williams but may be hesitant on long-term commitments in a volatile relief market. Returning pitchers like Brusdar Graterol and Evan Phillips provide internal options, and the Dodgers could pursue a proven closer if the market aligns.
Read at Los Angeles Times
Unable to calculate read time
Collection
[
|
...
]