What's Happening?
The Los Angeles Dodgers are grappling with the underperformance of Tanner Scott, a left-handed closer who was signed to a four-year, $72-million deal during the offseason. Scott, who had a stellar record with the Marlins and Padres last season, has struggled this year, recording a 4.44 ERA and blowing eight saves, which is second in the majors. Despite his previous success, Scott's current performance has raised concerns within the team, as he has allowed more hits and inherited runners to score compared to last season. The Dodgers, known for their patience with players, are likely to continue giving Scott opportunities to improve, although manager Dave Roberts has hinted at the possibility of giving other players more chances if necessary.
Why It's Important?
Scott's performance is crucial for the Dodgers as they aim to secure their position in the postseason. His struggles could impact the team's ability to maintain leads in crucial games, potentially affecting their standings in the National League West. The Dodgers' decision to persist with Scott reflects their long-standing strategy of not giving up on players, which has had mixed results in the past. The team's management must balance the need for immediate results with their commitment to player development, which could influence their postseason prospects and overall team morale.
What's Next?
The Dodgers are expected to continue fielding Scott in games, hoping for a turnaround in his performance. Manager Dave Roberts has indicated that the team will play the best players, suggesting that if Scott's performance does not improve, other players may be given more opportunities. The Dodgers' upcoming games against teams like Pittsburgh will be critical in determining their postseason positioning, and Scott's role in these games will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.
Beyond the Headlines
Scott's situation highlights the challenges of high-stakes contracts in professional sports, where performance can fluctuate significantly. The Dodgers' approach to handling Scott's decline may set a precedent for how they manage future player contracts and performance issues. Additionally, Scott's struggles as a left-handed closer underscore the rarity and difficulty of excelling in this role, which has historically seen fewer successful players compared to right-handed closers.
