Dodgers Sign Top Reliever Tanner Scott in $72M Deal

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — The Los Angeles Dodgers have bolstered their bullpen by signing left-handed reliever Tanner Scott to a four-year, $72 million contract, sources confirmed to ESPN on Sunday. The deal includes a $20 million signing bonus and $21 million in deferred payments, a structure the Dodgers have frequently used this offseason.

Scott, 30, is widely regarded as one of the top relief pitchers on the free agent market. Over the past two seasons with the Miami Marlins and Baltimore Orioles, he posted a 2.04 ERA in 146 appearances, striking out 188 batters in 150 innings. His addition solidifies the Dodgers’ bullpen, which already features high-leverage arms like Evan Phillips, Brusdar Graterol, and Blake Treinen.

The signing marks the latest move in an aggressive offseason for the reigning World Series champions. Earlier, the Dodgers signed Japanese phenom Roki Sasaki, re-signed outfielder Jason Heyward, and acquired Korean second baseman Hyeseong Kim. They also extended contracts for key players and made significant international signings.

With Scott’s deal, the Dodgers’ luxury tax payroll is projected to exceed $375 million, far surpassing the second-highest payroll in Major League Baseball. Only the New York Mets are expected to have a competitive balance tax payroll over $300 million.

“The Dodgers are building a juggernaut,” said one MLB analyst. “They’re not just aiming to repeat as champions; they’re trying to create a dynasty.”

Scott, a former sixth-round draft pick in 2014, has emerged as a dominant force in recent years. His ability to strike out batters and limit walks has made him a coveted asset for teams seeking bullpen stability. The Dodgers’ front office has been praised for its strategic approach, blending high-profile signings with cost-effective moves.

“This is the kind of move that puts you over the top,” said a source familiar with the negotiations. “Scott gives them another elite arm in the late innings, which is crucial in the playoffs.”

The Dodgers’ offseason spending spree has drawn comparisons to the New York Yankees‘ dominance in the late 1990s. With Scott now in the fold, the team is poised to make a strong push to become the first repeat World Series champion since the Yankees’ three-peat from 1998 to 2000.

MLB.com first reported the agreement, which is pending a physical. The Dodgers’ front office has not yet commented publicly on the deal.