Dodgers face postseason uncertainty with Tanner Scott’s predictability
The Los Angeles Dodgers have secured their spot in the postseason once again, clinching the NL West title amid another impressive campaign. However, as the team prepares to make a deep playoff run, one glaring issue looms large: the inconsistency of their bullpen. Despite having veteran arms like Clayton Kershaw and promising talent Roki Sasaki slated for October, the overall performance of the relief corps has raised concerns.
Tanner Scott’s Predictability Under Scrutiny
Among the relievers grappling with challenges, Tanner Scott has emerged as a focal point of frustration. Recent commentary from Arizona Diamondbacks All-Star Geraldo Perdomo has brought Scott’s predictability to the forefront. After delivering a walk-off hit in the recent series against the Dodgers, Perdomo remarked on Scott’s approach, hinting at a lack of variation in his pitch selection.
“He has a good fastball,” Perdomo noted, “but I don’t know why he doesn’t use it more. I saw the at-bat against Vargas; he threw six of seven sliders. I said he’s going to do the same thing to me. He threw a ton of sliders; I don’t know why. I was ready for that slider.”
The Risks of Predictability in October
In the high-stakes environment of the playoffs, predictability can be a pitcher’s downfall. When hitters can anticipate a pitch, it significantly tilts the odds in their favor. Scott’s reliance on just a fastball and slider—without effectively mixing them—renders him a target for opposing batters. His inability to deviate from this routine puts him at risk of being exploited during critical moments.
After signing a hefty $72 million deal in the offseason, Scott was expected to play a pivotal role in the Dodgers’ bullpen. However, if his predictability continues to hinder his effectiveness, it may severely limit his opportunities in high-leverage situations during the postseason.
Blown Saves and Confidence Issues
Scott’s struggles this season are underscored by a staggering statistic: he has recorded an MLB-worst ten blown saves. This alarming trend raises questions about his reliability in critical moments, particularly as the Dodgers aim for another World Series title. The last thing the team needs is a pitcher who tips his pitches or becomes overly predictable—both scenarios could lead to disastrous outcomes in the playoffs.
Adding to the concern is Scott’s waning confidence. A left-handed reliever who once held promise now finds himself spiraling, struggling to regain the form that made him a coveted asset. Despite the significant investment the Dodgers made in Scott, there may be a growing need to limit his role as they navigate the postseason landscape.
The quest to repeat as World Series champions is fraught with challenges, and Scott’s unpredictable nature could prove detrimental to the Dodgers’ aspirations this October. As the team prepares for the rigors of playoff baseball, the management will need to carefully consider how best to utilize Scott, if at all, in crucial situations.
