The Los Angeles Dodgers’ offseason narrative has been dominated by their pitching staff, from the acquisition of Roki Sasaki to Shohei Ohtani’s return to the mound. The focus has primarily centered on the starting rotation. Manager Dave Roberts recently confirmed that Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Sasaki will start the two games against the Chicago Cubs in the Tokyo Series, commencing on March 18th. While the starting rotation has been a point of focus, there has been some mystery surrounding the closer role. However, Roberts recently provided clarity.
Los Angeles Dodgers Name Tanner Scott Closer Ahead Of Tokyo Series
In a post on X from Dodgers Nation, Roberts identified Tanner Scott as the pitcher who “… is going to finish most games.” This announcement indicates that Scott will serve as the Dodgers’ closer for the majority of the season, bringing certainty to the role of the team’s $72 million bullpen addition.
After signing a four-year contract, Scott was widely expected to assume the closer’s role. However, Roberts refrained from making a definitive statement until now. Scott, an eight-year veteran, has played for the Baltimore Orioles, Miami Marlins, and San Diego Padres, where he was a significant trade-deadline acquisition in 2024.
Scott has accumulated 55 career saves, with 54 of those coming in the last three seasons. His 2024 season with the Marlins was particularly impressive, featuring a 1.18 earned run average across 45 and two-thirds innings. He also earned his first All-Star selection in 2024. During his tenure with the Marlins, Scott posted a 2.71 earned run average in 212 and two-thirds innings, with 278 strikeouts.
In 2025 Spring Training, Scott has recorded a 4.50 earned run average and seven strikeouts in six innings. While his spring performance has been mixed, his overall track record is encouraging. With Roberts’ confirmation of Scott as the closer, the Dodgers’ pitching staff is now set, allowing the team to concentrate on their pursuit of another World Series championship.
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