Now, just one of the two top targets is anticipated to be acquired by the Dodgers.
The Los Angeles Dodgers are actively seeking ways to fortify their bullpen as they aim to remain competitive in the 2025 MLB season. Reports suggest the team is exploring multiple high-profile options to strengthen their relief corps, with free-agent reliever Tanner Scott and Milwaukee Brewers closer Devin Williams emerging as two primary targets. This strategic move underscores the Dodgers’ commitment to building a dominant pitching staff capable of carrying them deep into the postseason.
### Dodgers’ Pursuit of Tanner Scott
Last week, Fabian Ardaya of *The Athletic* highlighted the Dodgers’ strong interest in Tanner Scott, who earned his first All-Star selection in 2024 following an exceptional season. This pursuit isn’t a recent development; the Dodgers were reportedly among the frontrunners to acquire Scott at the 2024 trade deadline. However, the left-handed reliever ultimately landed with the San Diego Padres, as reported by Jon Heyman of *The New York Post*.
Scott’s 2024 campaign was nothing short of remarkable. Splitting his time between the Miami Marlins and the Padres, he compiled a stellar 1.75 ERA across 72 innings. His impressive strikeout tally of 84 highlighted his ability to dominate hitters, while his postseason contributions further cemented his status as an elite reliever. In the National League Division Series (NLDS), Scott pitched 4.1 scoreless innings, showcasing his composure in high-pressure situations.
As Scott enters free agency, his market value is projected to be substantial. MLB analyst Jim Bowden predicts that the 29-year-old reliever could secure a four-year contract worth approximately $60 million. Such a deal would reflect his consistency and effectiveness as one of the premier left-handed options available this offseason. The Dodgers’ interest in Scott aligns with their broader strategy to enhance their bullpen depth and reliability.
### Devin Williams: A Trade Opportunity?
In addition to their pursuit of Scott, the Dodgers are reportedly exploring the possibility of acquiring Milwaukee Brewers closer Devin Williams. Ken Rosenthal of *The Athletic* recently stated on FoulTerritoryTV that he “expects the Dodgers to land either Scott or Williams,” further fueling speculation about a potential blockbuster move.
Williams’ future with the Brewers is uncertain, particularly after Milwaukee declined his $10.5 million club option for 2025. While Williams remains under team control for one more year through arbitration, this decision has led to questions about the Brewers’ long-term plans for their star closer. A trade could provide Milwaukee with an opportunity to reallocate resources and address other areas of their roster.
Since breaking into the league, Williams has established himself as one of MLB’s most dominant relievers. The 2020 National League Rookie of the Year boasts a career ERA of 1.83, an impressive figure that underscores his consistency and effectiveness. His signature changeup, nicknamed the “Airbender,” has baffled hitters and contributed significantly to his success.
Williams’ 2024 season further solidified his elite status. In 22 appearances, he posted a minuscule 1.25 ERA and a 0.969 WHIP while averaging an extraordinary 15.8 strikeouts per nine innings. These numbers reflect his ability to overpower opposing batters and handle high-leverage situations with ease. However, his season ended on a sour note when he surrendered a game-winning home run to the New York Mets during the NL Wild Card Series.
### Comparing the Options: Scott vs. Williams
Both Tanner Scott and Devin Williams represent significant upgrades for the Dodgers’ bullpen, but each comes with unique attributes and considerations. Scott, as a left-handed reliever, would bring balance to a bullpen often dominated by right-handed pitchers. His durability and ability to pitch multiple innings add to his appeal. Additionally, signing Scott as a free agent would allow the Dodgers to retain their existing roster assets, avoiding the need to trade valuable prospects or players.
On the other hand, Williams’ track record as a closer and his dominant career statistics make him an attractive option for a team seeking a lockdown ninth-inning presence. His ability to generate strikeouts at an elite rate and his experience in high-stakes games could make him a game-changing addition. However, acquiring Williams would likely require the Dodgers to part with significant assets in a trade, given his age, talent, and remaining year of team control.
### The Dodgers’ Bullpen Needs
The Dodgers’ bullpen was a source of both strength and concern during the 2024 season. While the team’s relievers posted respectable overall numbers, inconsistency in key moments highlighted the need for reinforcements. Injuries to key arms and a lack of depth in the later innings exposed vulnerabilities that the Dodgers are eager to address this offseason.
By targeting elite relievers like Scott and Williams, the Dodgers are signaling their intent to build a bullpen capable of matching up against the league’s best lineups. With a strong starting rotation already in place, adding high-quality relief options could provide the team with a competitive edge in close games and the postseason.
### Broader Implications for the Market
The Dodgers’ pursuit of Scott and Williams also reflects broader trends in MLB’s offseason market. Teams across the league are placing an increasing emphasis on bullpen depth and flexibility, recognizing the critical role relievers play in modern baseball. As a result, elite relievers like Scott are commanding substantial contracts in free agency, while proven closers like Williams are highly sought after in trade discussions.
If the Dodgers succeed in landing either Scott or Williams, it could set the tone for the rest of the offseason and influence how other teams approach their bullpen construction. Additionally, their willingness to invest significant resources—whether in free-agent dollars or trade assets—underscores the organization’s commitment to maintaining its status as a perennial contender.
### Final Thoughts
The Los Angeles Dodgers’ offseason moves will be closely watched as they look to address their bullpen needs. Tanner Scott and Devin Williams represent two of the most intriguing options on the market, and the team’s pursuit of these elite relievers highlights their ambition to build a championship-caliber roster.
Whether through free agency or trade, acquiring one of these standout arms could significantly enhance the Dodgers’ chances of success in 2025. With Scott’s proven track record as a durable left-handed option and Williams’ dominance as a closer, either player would be a valuable addition to a team with high expectations. As the offseason unfolds, the Dodgers’ decisions will not only shape their roster but also send ripples across the league, setting the stage for another exciting MLB season.
