Dodgers could get $72M veteran reliever back for World Series after abrupt disappearance originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Los Angeles Dodgers’ biggest bullpen signing of the offseason was Tanner Scott, who joined the team on a $72 million contract. Scott was considered one of the top relievers available in free agency. However, the regular season was less than kind to him, possibly due to issues with tipping pitches.
“I don’t know if I’m tipping or what but they’re on everything. It sucks. … It was a fastball above the zone. Maybe I’m tipping. I have no friggin’ clue right now. It’s terrible. I’m having the worst year of my life. I gotta be better,” Scott told the media earlier in the season.
Early in the postseason, Scott was removed from the Dodgers’ playoff roster for what was initially labeled a personal matter.
“Tanner was not at the ballpark today,” Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said. “There was something going on. Personal. It will come out later, but he was completely unavailable.”
It was later revealed that Scott had undergone a minor medical procedure, which explained his abrupt absence from the roster.
“As I understand it, it was abscess excision, some type of lower body (procedure),” Roberts said. “I don’t know a whole lot about it, to be quite honest with you. But I do know that he’s recovering well. And it took place last night. That’s kind of where we’re at.”
On Wednesday, encouraging news surfaced as Scott returned to work out with the Dodgers.
“Tanner Scott is back with the Dodgers, participating in tonight’s workout,” Dodger Blue posted.
For Los Angeles, this could mean Scott is just a few days away from being activated. It’s also possible the team is strategically saving him for what appears to be another World Series push.
The Dodgers are expected to be cautious with Scott’s return, but his presence would restore the bullpen to full strength. Scott was signed with the goal of helping the team win a championship, and it may soon be time for him to give it his all once again.
