Dodgers Set Sights on Edwin Diaz to Reinforce Bullpen Following Tanner Scott’s Disappointment
The Los Angeles Dodgers are navigating the early stages of the MLB offseason with a keen eye on bolstering their roster as free agency officially kicks off. While significant moves have yet to materialize, the team’s glaring needs in both the outfield and bullpen suggest that silence won’t last for long.
Tanner Scott’s Struggles Weigh on the Bullpen
Last season, the Dodgers’ bullpen was fraught with challenges, most notably illustrated by the underwhelming performance of left-hander Tanner Scott. After committing to him with a substantial four-year, $72 million contract, the Dodgers were left disappointed as Scott led Major League Baseball with 10 blown saves and posted an unflattering 4.74 ERA. His struggles culminated in not being part of the postseason roster due to an abscess excision, leaving a void that the team must now address.
Edwin Diaz Emerges as a Prime Target
In light of these bullpen woes, former New York Mets closer Edwin Diaz has surfaced as a potential target for the Dodgers. The two-time National League Reliever of the Year has opted out of the final two years of a lucrative five-year, $102 million deal and is expected to attract significant interest from multiple teams if he decides to leave New York.
Diaz’s arrival would inject much-needed stability into a bullpen that ranked 20th in ERA last season and struggled in critical postseason moments. Industry insiders suggest that the Dodgers are among the frontrunners to secure Diaz’s services, alongside the Detroit Tigers and the Toronto Blue Jays, who finished as World Series runners-up.
Reinforcing the Bullpen with Proven Talent
The addition of Diaz would not only bolster the Dodgers’ relief options but also provide manager Dave Roberts with an established closer who possesses a proven track record in high-pressure situations. An article highlighted that “Diaz would become manager Dave Roberts’ new closer, giving him an established All-Star-caliber reliever who has also shut the door in postseason games.” This level of reliability is crucial as the Dodgers look to bounce back from last season’s playoff exit.
The prospect of Scott returning to form or internal development within the bullpen could add depth; however, the Dodgers understand the importance of not leaving anything to chance.
Financial Flexibility and a Willingness to Spend
The Dodgers have a reputation for making significant investments when the opportunity arises. Diaz is anticipated to command a record-setting average annual value for relief pitchers, with a potential four-year deal estimated between $80 million and $82 million. Currently, the Dodgers’ expected payroll hovers just above $261 million, following a record spend exceeding $350 million for their championship roster last season. With financial resources at their disposal, the Dodgers are well-positioned to pursue Diaz aggressively, ready to make a splash in the free agency market.
As the offseason unfolds, all eyes will be on the Dodgers as they look to reshape their bullpen and position themselves as serious contenders for the upcoming season.
