Tanner Scott’s Potential Return to the World Series
Injury Update for Dodgers Reliever
Los Angeles Dodgers reliever Tanner Scott may have a chance to rejoin his team for the World Series, following his absence during the National League Championship Series (NLCS) due to an unfortunate injury. When Scott signed a four-year, $72 million deal this offseason, he was quickly recognized as one of the highest-paid relief pitchers in Major League Baseball. His previous accolades include being named an All-Star and showcasing his reliability as a high-leverage arm on the mound.
2023 Season Performance
In 2023, Scott recorded a bWAR of 3.9, and he achieved a similar 4.0 bWAR in 2024, consistently logging over 70 innings in both seasons. These metrics underscore his capability to maintain a significant workload throughout the year. Unfortunately, his inaugural season with the Dodgers has not unfolded as anticipated, with Scott netting a disappointing 4.74 ERA across 57 innings pitched. His performance reflected in a negative bWAR of -0.6, highlighting the ongoing struggles he faced.
Challenges Faced During Playoffs
Scott’s challenges only intensified as he faced setbacks during the playoffs. Initially, he seemed poised for a role, but a lower-body injury sustained in the National League Division Series (NLDS) forced him off the roster, ultimately resulting in his absence from the NLCS. This situation has put not just Scott, but the entire Dodgers bullpen, in a tough spot.
Hope for World Series Inclusion
Recent reports from Jon Heyman of The New York Post suggest that Scott might recover in time to participate in the World Series. Scott himself has indicated optimism, stating that he is already throwing and is working hard to be ready for the final series of the season. He referred to his ailment ambiguously as “an infection,” while team officials classified it as a cyst. Whether this discrepancy will affect his recovery timeline remains unclear.
Insights from Dodgers Management
Dodgers general manager Brandon Gomes provided updates regarding Scott’s injury during a recent press briefing. He estimated that Scott could be sidelined anywhere from seven days to two weeks. Gomes explained, “It sounded like it was uncomfortable. Then we thought he was on the other side of it. And then it got worse to the point of having to have the procedure.”
Potential Impact on the Team
Though Scott hasn’t demonstrated his usual level of potency this season, his return could be beneficial, especially against left-handed hitters. The coaching staff may look to him to provide valuable outs and gradually rebuild his confidence as they navigate the high-stakes postseason.
Broader Context of the Dodgers’ Season
The Dodgers are currently in the spotlight for more than just Scott’s injury. There have been comparisons drawn between Shohei Ohtani’s impact and the legacy of Michael Jordan, highlighting the buzz surrounding the team as they prepare for potential playoff glory. As the Dodgers strive for a championship, Scott’s return might add an additional layer of strategic depth to their bullpen.
Keeping an Eye on Updates
For those interested in the latest news surrounding the Dodgers and MLB in general, keeping track of ongoing developments will be essential. With the playoffs underway, the focus will increasingly shift towards how key players like Tanner Scott can contribute under pressure.
