The Dodgers and the Tanner Scott Sweepstakes: Analyzing the Predicted Loss to an AL Contender

In the world of Major League Baseball (MLB), few events generate as much anticipation and excitement as the trade deadline, when teams make moves to improve their rosters for a postseason push. One of the most coveted assets in recent years has been Tanner Scott, a flame-throwing left-handed reliever known for his ability to close out games with a high strikeout rate and the potential to be a difference-maker in the bullpen. As the 2025 MLB season progresses, rumors and speculation surrounding Scott’s future are reaching a fever pitch, and many have focused on the Los Angeles Dodgers as a potential suitor. However, recent predictions suggest that the Dodgers might fall short in securing Scott’s services, with an American League (AL) contender set to win the sweepstakes. In this analysis, we will dive into why the Dodgers are predicted to lose out on Tanner Scott, what this means for the team, and how the AL contender is positioning itself for a successful acquisition.

Who is Tanner Scott?

Before diving into the specifics of the trade market and the competition for Scott’s services, it’s important to first understand who Tanner Scott is and why he has become such an attractive trade target.

Tanner Scott is a left-handed relief pitcher who has carved out a reputation as one of the most electrifying arms in MLB’s bullpen landscape. Originally drafted by the Baltimore Orioles, Scott’s primary weapon is his fastball, which regularly sits in the mid-90s and touches 100 mph. He also features a slider that can be devastating to left-handed hitters, making him a crucial weapon against teams that rely heavily on left-handed bats.

What sets Scott apart, however, is his ability to miss bats at an elite level. His strikeout rate has consistently been above 30% throughout his career, and his ability to generate swings and misses in high-leverage situations has made him a coveted asset for teams looking to shore up their bullpen. He has also shown the ability to handle high-leverage situations and close games, making him an ideal option for teams in need of a reliable late-inning option.

Despite some inconsistencies in his control, which has occasionally led to bouts of wildness, Scott’s overall body of work makes him one of the most attractive trade candidates on the market. His potential to dominate in the back end of a bullpen gives any contender a chance to elevate their pitching staff, and the opportunity to acquire a left-handed reliever of his caliber is too good to pass up.

The Dodgers and Their Pursuit of Tanner Scott

The Los Angeles Dodgers have been one of the most successful franchises in MLB over the past decade. With a deep roster, a strong farm system, and a commitment to winning, the Dodgers have consistently been in contention for the World Series. However, as the 2025 season rolls on, there are signs that the team’s bullpen, despite being effective, could use another dominant arm to bolster its chances in the postseason.

The Dodgers’ bullpen has been solid, but it is not without its flaws. While closer Evan Phillips has been reliable, the rest of the relief corps has experienced its fair share of struggles with consistency. The acquisition of a high-caliber reliever like Tanner Scott could provide a much-needed boost to the bullpen, particularly in high-leverage situations. His ability to lock down games in the late innings would complement the Dodgers’ formidable starting rotation and potent lineup, potentially giving them the edge they need to make a deep playoff run.

However, despite the obvious need for a player like Scott, the Dodgers’ pursuit of the reliever may be hindered by several factors. The team’s ability to meet the asking price, the competition from other suitors, and their overall priorities as they look to balance their roster for a postseason push all play a role in making this a difficult acquisition.

The Competition: An AL Contender’s Positioning

One of the main reasons the Dodgers are predicted to lose out on the Tanner Scott sweepstakes is the fierce competition from an American League contender. While many teams are in need of bullpen help, it is the AL teams that seem to have the most urgent need for a reliever like Scott.

In particular, teams that are in the midst of a tight playoff race or are looking to bolster their bullpen for a potential postseason run are positioned to make aggressive offers for Scott. These AL contenders may be more motivated to make a deal, especially if they feel they are just one piece away from a World Series title. Moreover, AL teams often have a deep pool of prospects or major-league-ready talent that could appeal to the Orioles or whichever team is currently holding Scott.

One team that has been frequently mentioned in connection with Scott is the New York Yankees. The Yankees have been dealing with a number of injuries to their bullpen and are in need of a reliable left-handed arm to help anchor their relief corps. A move for Scott would give them an electric option at the back end of their bullpen and could potentially turn them into a more formidable postseason contender.

Other AL teams such as the Houston Astros, Toronto Blue Jays, and Chicago White Sox are also in the mix. All of these teams have been linked to Scott in recent rumors and could present compelling offers. For the Dodgers, this means they are not the only team in need of Scott’s services, and their ability to compete with other contenders will be key in any potential deal.

Why the Dodgers Might Lose the Sweepstakes

Several factors are contributing to the Dodgers’ predicted failure in acquiring Tanner Scott, even though the team clearly has the need and the desire to add a pitcher of his caliber.

1. The Price Tag

One of the primary reasons the Dodgers may fall short in securing Scott is the price tag. Tanner Scott is an elite reliever, and as such, his value on the trade market will be high. The Orioles or the team holding Scott will likely demand a significant return, possibly including top prospects, young major-league talent, or a combination of both.

While the Dodgers have a deep farm system, they may be hesitant to part with top-tier prospects like Diego Cartaya or Bobby Miller, especially when considering their long-term championship window. The team may be more inclined to pursue a more cost-effective bullpen solution or explore other options in the trade market, particularly if they feel they can address their needs without mortgaging their future.

2. Roster Balance and Luxury Tax Concerns

The Dodgers are known for their ability to spend money, but they also need to balance their payroll to stay under the luxury tax threshold. Acquiring Scott would likely mean taking on a significant salary, which could impact the Dodgers’ ability to make other moves to improve their roster in other areas. The team may prioritize addressing other positions, such as bolstering their starting rotation or adding another bat, which could ultimately take priority over acquiring a high-priced reliever.

3. Strong AL Contender Competition

The competition from the American League contenders also plays a major role in the Dodgers’ predicted loss in the sweepstakes. AL teams are often more aggressive in their pursuit of bullpen help, especially when they see themselves as a serious contender. With teams like the Yankees and Astros in need of a left-handed reliever, the Dodgers may find themselves outbid, either in terms of the prospects they are willing to offer or the financial resources they can commit.

4. Dodgers’ Reluctance to Overpay

The Dodgers have a history of being cautious with trades, particularly when it comes to overpaying for relief pitchers. While they have made blockbuster deals in the past, they are known for being shrewd in their approach to the trade market. Given Scott’s track record of inconsistency, the team may be hesitant to meet the asking price, particularly if they believe there are other, more reliable options available on the market.