Red Sox Miss Out on Top Bullpen Target as Dodgers Sign Tanner Scott

BOSTON — The Boston Red Sox missed out on a key bullpen target Sunday as left-handed reliever Tanner Scott signed a four-year contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Scott, a 2024 All-Star, was rumored to be of interest to the Red Sox, who are seeking to stabilize their relief pitching ahead of the upcoming MLB season.

Scott, 29, was one of the most sought-after relievers on the market after posting a 2.31 ERA and 104 strikeouts in 70 innings last season. His addition could have provided Boston with a reliable closer or high-leverage setup option. Instead, the Dodgers, fresh off their World Series championship, secured his services, leaving the Red Sox to explore other options.

MassLive‘s Chris Cotillo speculated on potential alternatives for Boston. “I’m gonna make a prediction that the Sox land either (Carlos) Estévez, (Kirby) Yates, (David) Robertson, (Tommy) Kahnle, or (Kyle) Finnegan,” Cotillo posted on X. All five pitchers are veteran right-handers with experience in high-pressure situations, making them logical targets for a Red Sox bullpen that already features promising arms like Kenley Jansen and Chris Martin.

Cotillo suggested that a short-term deal with a high average annual value for one of these pitchers “would make a lot of sense in an effort to add a veteran righty to a pretty strong group.” However, it remains unclear how the Red Sox front office, led by chief baseball officer Craig Breslow, prioritizes these options.

In addition to free agency, Boston could turn to the trade market to address its bullpen needs. The Red Sox have reportedly been in discussions with the St. Louis Cardinals regarding third baseman Nolan Arenado, and those talks could potentially expand to include relief pitchers. The Cardinals have several bullpen arms, including Ryan Helsley and Giovanny Gallegos, who could interest Boston.

The Red Sox finished last season with a 78-84 record, missing the playoffs for the third time in four years. Strengthening the bullpen is a critical step in their efforts to compete in a highly competitive American League East division. With Scott off the board, the pressure is on Breslow and his team to identify and secure the right pieces to bolster their pitching staff.