Late-Inning Meltdown: Tanner Scott’s Slump, Dodger Injuries, and a Bullpen on the Brink in 2025
Los Angeles Dodgers’ late-game woes deepen as big-money reliever Tanner Scott struggles, bullpen injuries pile up, and fans demand answers.
- 4.72 ERA — Tanner Scott’s mark through first 28 games with Dodgers
- $72 Million — Scott’s four-year contract, one of LA’s biggest relief deals ever
- 5 Key Relievers — Dodgers relievers currently sidelined by injury
- 70+ Innings — Dodger rookie relievers’ workload in 2025 so far
The Los Angeles Dodgers bullpen, a usual fortress, has turned into the biggest question mark of their 2025 campaign. Despite entering the season with sky-high expectations and a blockbuster $72 million addition in Tanner Scott, Dave Roberts is scrambling for answers as his bullpen buckles under pressure and a wave of injuries.
Monday night’s agonizing 10th-inning loss to the New York Mets put these issues under a glaring spotlight. Scott, expected to be the Dodgers’ lockdown late-game ace, surrendered two runs in extra innings—continuing an alarming trend that’s rocked the team and frustrated the fanbase.
In his last seven outings, Scott has been tagged for ten earned runs on thirteen hits over just six innings. This rocky stretch has led to two losses and two blown saves—far from the ace stopper LA thought they bought from the San Diego Padres.
Meanwhile, rookie relievers Ben Casparius and Jack Dreyer, previously untested, have seen their workloads soar with over 70 combined innings pitched. Roberts praised their resilience but urged experienced arms to step up, emphasizing it’s not fair to lean so heavily on young talent.
Why Is Tanner Scott Struggling in 2025?
Scott, once a Miami Marlins and Padres standout lauded for his lethal fastball, is confounding Dodgers coaches with his rapid decline. In 2023 and 2024, he was among the best, boasting a dazzling 1.75 ERA and earning his first All-Star appearance.
But a critical stat tells the story: last year, batters slugged only .179 against his four-seamer. This season? A worrying .581. His pitches haven’t lost velocity or movement, but location issues mean hitters are feasting on offerings that once baffled them. Even Scott admits that missing locations has cost him—and the Dodgers—big moments.
Injuries Worsen the Dodgers Bullpen Crisis
The Dodgers’ depth has been decimated. Closing stalwart Evan Phillips is set for season-ending Tommy John surgery. Four other key bullpen arms, including Michael Kopech, Kirby Yates, Blake Treinen, and Brusdar Graterol, are on the shelf. Luis Garcia joined them recently with a groin strain.
Lefties Alex Vesia and Anthony Banda have been respectable, maintaining a combined 3.86 ERA, but LA’s bullpen is now predominantly southpaw—a challenge for matchups against righty-heavy lineups.
With the MLB trade deadline looming, rumors swirl about LA shopping for more bullpen help.
Q&A: What’s Next for the Dodgers Bullpen?
Q: Can Scott turn it around?
Analysts say he needs to regain confidence and command quickly. His history suggests it’s possible, but patience is running thin in LA.
Q: Are reinforcements coming?
With so many pitchers on the injured list, expect the Dodgers to explore young arms in the minors or trade options. The pressure’s on before postseason ambitions slip away.
Q: How much can the offense help?
Shohei Ohtani continues to carry the load, blasting his 23rd NL homer and delivering key late-at-bats, but it’s clear LA can’t outslug bullpen meltdowns every night.
How Can LA Save Its Season? 3 Steps the Dodgers Must Take Now
1. Revive Scott’s 2024 Form: Coaches must collaborate with Scott to fix his pitch location and boost his confidence.
2. Embrace Youthful Energy: Continue trusting rookies Casparius and Dreyer while managing their workload to avoid burnout.
3. Attack the Trade Market: Actively seek proven right-handed relievers on the ESPN rumor mill and through MLBPA contacts.
Dodger Nation, stay alert—dramatic bullpen changes could be around the corner. Want your team back on top? Here’s your must-do checklist:
- Follow roster updates daily on MLB.com
- Monitor rookie call-ups and injury returns—expect surprises
- Watch Scott’s pitch locations in upcoming games—a quick fix could spark a turnaround
- Track trade rumors; Dodgers have the assets, but will they act fast enough?
The 2025 Dodgers’ bullpen story is far from over—expect fireworks as the season heats up!
