The Chicago Cubs’ offer to reliever Tanner Scott has gained attention in the wake of the Los Angeles Dodgers’ significant move in the bullpen market. While the Dodgers’ decision to make a major acquisition raised questions about how teams like the Cubs might respond, the Cubs’ actions, in particular their reported interest in Scott, are indicative of a larger trend toward fortifying bullpen depth across Major League Baseball.
This article will delve into the key elements surrounding the Cubs’ offer to Scott, the Dodgers’ decision-making process, and the broader impact on the bullpen market.
Chicago Cubs’ Offer to Tanner Scott
The Chicago Cubs have long been focused on building a competitive, well-rounded team with a particular emphasis on pitching depth. After a season in which their bullpen was somewhat volatile, the Cubs front office recognized the need to bolster their late-game options, especially with high-velocity left-handed arms. Tanner Scott, a left-handed reliever known for his blazing fastball and strikeout ability, has been a key target for teams looking to enhance their bullpen.
Scott, 29, has emerged as one of the more intriguing left-handed bullpen arms in recent years. His fastball, often hitting 98-100 mph, combined with his slider, gives him the ability to neutralize both left-handed and right-handed hitters. In the 2024 season, Scott posted a solid ERA and recorded a high number of strikeouts, showcasing his potential as a shutdown closer or a high-leverage setup man.
The Cubs’ offer to Scott likely stems from their desire to add more stability to a bullpen that struggled with consistency in 2024. While the Cubs had promising arms like Adbert Alzolay and Mark Leiter Jr., their bullpen often faltered in high-pressure situations. Adding a power pitcher like Scott would give manager David Ross a reliable lefty option for late-game situations. Furthermore, Scott’s ability to strike out batters at a high rate provides an added level of security for late-game management, particularly in one-run games or high-leverage moments.
Cubs’ president of baseball operations, Jed Hoyer, has made it clear that improving the bullpen is a priority for the club. With an offer on the table to Scott, the Cubs have shown they are serious about shoring up this part of the team. Whether or not Scott ultimately accepts the Cubs’ offer remains to be seen, but the fact that the Cubs are pursuing such a high-profile arm speaks volumes about their commitment to improving their pitching staff.
Los Angeles Dodgers’ Deal and Impact on the Market
In an unexpected move, the Los Angeles Dodgers made headlines by acquiring a bullpen arm that many teams had coveted. Their decision to sign a reliever to a multi-year deal has shaken up the landscape of the bullpen market and caused a ripple effect that impacted teams like the Cubs.
The Dodgers, always a team focused on acquiring elite talent to complement their star-studded lineup, have recognized the importance of stabilizing their bullpen. After dealing with inconsistent performances from their relief corps in recent years, the Dodgers were keen on upgrading their depth. They ultimately landed a reliever with a proven track record in high-leverage situations, giving them additional flexibility heading into the 2025 season.
What does this have to do with the Cubs and their offer to Scott? Quite simply, the Dodgers’ move demonstrates the growing demand for quality bullpen arms. In a market where relief pitching has become more vital than ever, teams like the Cubs are scrambling to secure talented arms that can contribute immediately. The Cubs are no exception, and their pursuit of Scott is a direct response to the Dodgers’ acquisition and the broader trend in the industry.
In the wake of the Dodgers’ signing, other teams around the league, including the Cubs, have intensified their efforts to build stronger bullpens. The domino effect of one team’s success in the free-agent market often prompts others to make similar moves, knowing the value of a solid bullpen in the postseason.
The Cubs, in particular, are positioning themselves to be serious contenders for a playoff spot. While their offense is solid and their starting pitching rotation has promise, having a strong bullpen is often the difference between making it to the postseason and falling short. With the Dodgers making bold moves to shore up their bullpen, the Cubs are wise to ensure they don’t fall behind in this crucial aspect of team building.
The Broader Bullpen Market and Team Strategies
The 2025 MLB offseason has seen a flurry of activity surrounding bullpen signings, and Tanner Scott’s name has emerged as one of the more highly sought-after arms. With many teams emphasizing bullpen depth as a key part of their strategies, the market for top-tier relievers has been highly competitive. In particular, left-handed pitchers with electric stuff like Scott are at a premium.
For the Cubs, their interest in Scott represents a larger trend across baseball: teams are increasingly investing in relief pitching as a critical component of their roster. The role of relievers, once considered secondary to starting pitchers, has become more prominent in recent years, with organizations recognizing the importance of a deep and versatile bullpen. The Cubs’ offer to Scott is part of this trend, as the team seeks to solidify its late-inning strategy.
The Cubs’ bullpen struggles were particularly evident in 2024, where they finished in the middle of the pack in bullpen ERA. While the Cubs’ offense performed well, their inability to consistently close out games or prevent late rallies from opponents ultimately cost them a shot at the postseason. By securing Scott, the Cubs would be adding a proven arm to an otherwise promising bullpen.
Additionally, Scott’s presence would give the Cubs more options in the late innings, providing flexibility to mix and match relievers based on matchups. Scott has experience closing games, but his ability to work in high-leverage situations in the seventh or eighth innings would allow the Cubs to be more strategic in their bullpen usage.
Cubs’ Long-Term Vision
The Cubs have been rebuilding for the past several seasons, and their roster is now approaching the point where they can start thinking about sustained contention. Acquiring a reliever like Scott would fit into this long-term vision, not just for 2025, but for the future as well. Scott is entering the prime of his career, and a multi-year deal would ensure that the Cubs have a dominant lefty presence in their bullpen for years to come.
Additionally, Scott’s potential ability to close games could provide the Cubs with trade leverage down the road. If Scott performs at a high level, he could be a valuable trade asset at the deadline if the Cubs find themselves out of contention. Conversely, if the team is in the playoff hunt, Scott would be an invaluable piece in their pursuit of a deep postseason run.
For the Cubs’ front office, investing in relief pitching has been a consistent theme over the past few years. Adding Scott would continue this trend, complementing a rotation that already includes key players like Marcus Stroman and Justin Steele. While the Cubs’ starting pitching is strong, the bullpen will ultimately be the deciding factor in how far the team can go in the postseason.
