What's Happening?
Tanner Scott, a high-profile reliever for the Los Angeles Dodgers, is facing significant challenges as he leads Major League Baseball in blown saves this season. Scott, who was signed for $72 million as a major offseason acquisition, was expected to bolster the Dodgers' bullpen. However, his performance has been underwhelming, possibly due to issues with pitch-tipping. Scott himself has expressed uncertainty about whether he is tipping pitches, noting that opposing players seem to anticipate his throws. This situation has reached a critical point as Scott's struggles could jeopardize his role as the team's primary closer in the upcoming playoffs.
Why It's Important?
The performance of Tanner Scott is crucial for the Dodgers as they prepare for the playoffs. His inability to secure saves has highlighted ongoing issues within the team's bullpen, which has been a persistent problem throughout the season. If Scott cannot improve his performance, it may impact the Dodgers' chances of winning back-to-back World Series championships. The team has publicly expressed confidence in Scott, but his continued struggles could lead to strategic changes in the bullpen lineup, affecting the team's overall playoff strategy and dynamics.
What's Next?
As the regular season concludes, Tanner Scott will need to address his pitch-tipping issues and improve his performance to maintain his role as the Dodgers' primary closer. The team may consider alternative strategies, such as adjusting bullpen roles or seeking additional support, to ensure stability during the playoffs. Scott's ability to overcome these challenges will be closely watched by the Dodgers' management and fans, as his performance could significantly influence the team's postseason success.
