Dodgers Set Sights on High-Profile Relievers as Free-Agent Spending Spree Looms: Devin Williams and Tanner Scott in the Crosshairs
The ever-ambitious Los Angeles Dodgers are once again making headlines in the offseason as they seek to bolster their bullpen with high-caliber relief pitchers. Recent reports from The Athletic’s Fabian Ardaya indicate that the Dodgers are keen on acquiring two prominent closers, Devin Williams of the Milwaukee Brewers and Tanner Scott, as they explore both trade and free-agent avenues to enhance their roster heading into the 2025 season.
Devin Williams, the standout closer for the Brewers, is attracting attention as he approaches free agency next winter. With speculation swirling around Milwaukee’s intentions to trade a significant player ahead of entering the open market, the Dodgers could be positioning themselves well to make a strategic acquisition. Williams has a projected arbitration salary of approximately $7.7 million, but his last season was marred by injuries—specifically, a stress reaction in his back that sidelined him until mid-July.
Despite the setbacks, the 2024 campaign was impressive for Williams. On his return from injury, he showcased his talent with a remarkable 1.25 ERA over 21.2 innings, notching 14 saves during that span. However, rival teams may express caution, evaluating his back injury as a risk factor in negotiations. Additionally, his limited one-year control may temper offers, despite his elite status as a reliever.
Overall, Williams comes with an exceptional track record, which positions him as a highly sought-after asset. Since his debut in 2019, Williams has consistently delivered, earning a 1.83 ERA accompanied by a sky-high 39.4% strikeout rate across 235.2 career innings. His 11.8% career walk rate may raise eyebrows; however, the positives undeniably outweigh the negatives. Moreover, while a blown save in Game 3 of the NL Wild Card Series may resonate in Milwaukee, teams looking to solidify their bullpen will likely view Williams as an invaluable addition.
The Dodgers, boasting a wealth of young pitching talent, could present an attractive package for the Brewers in exchange for Williams. The organization, which has already made waves this offseason by acquiring Blake Snell, Michael Conforto, and Blake Treinen, may find it beneficial to trade some of its depth. Additionally, the team could pursue Scott aggressively, considering reports that rank him as the top reliever available in this year’s free-agent class. MLB Trade Rumors project Scott to command a four-year, $56 million deal—an amount that reflects the Dodgers’ willingness to invest in premium talent.
Tanner Scott, now with the San Diego Padres after a trade from the Miami Marlins, offers the Dodgers another exceptional option. Over the past two seasons, Scott has established himself as a powerful strikeout pitcher, posting a 2.04 ERA, a 31.3% strikeout rate, and a 10% walk rate over 150 innings pitched. Even though he has allowed only six home runs during that time and demonstrated impressive ground-ball tendencies, he has yet to fully realize his potential until the 2023 season.
The Dodgers’ continued pursuit of high-impact relief pitchers, particularly Williams and Scott, speaks volumes about their commitment to building a championship-caliber team. With a storied history of making significant moves when it comes to enhancing their roster, Los Angeles is undoubtedly positioning itself to be a serious contender for the title in 2025.
As the offseason unfolds, it will be fascinating to see how the Dodgers navigate the trade and free-agent markets to enhance their bullpen. With the pressure to maintain a winning culture and achieve postseason success, acquiring either Williams or Scott could provide the Dodgers with the high-leverage relief they seek. With the organization not afraid to spend, fans are eager to witness the moves that will shape the upcoming season, unlocking potential that could take the Dodgers to new heights. As the countdown to the 2025 season continues, the eyes of the baseball world remain fixated on how the Dodgers will navigate the dynamic landscape of trades and signings to secure their spot as championship favorites.
