Dodgers Eye Alexis Diaz as Potential Closer Solution Amid Tanner Scott’s Injury and Bullpen Crisis

The Los Angeles Dodgers’ bullpen crisis has reached a critical juncture with closer Tanner Scott landing on the injured list due to elbow inflammation. Scott’s $72 million signing now appears in jeopardy after reporting forearm discomfort that requires an MRI, leaving the team scrambling for late-inning solutions.

Alexis Díaz has emerged as a potential trade target to stabilize the Dodgers’ shaky relief corps, bringing both pedigree and high-leverage experience from his 37-save 2023 season with Cincinnati. While his recent 9.64 ERA in Triple-A raises concerns, the Dodgers’ reputation for pitcher development could unlock Díaz’s former dominance.

With Scott potentially facing an extended absence, Los Angeles may need to act swiftly before the trade deadline to address what has become their most glaring weakness in a championship-caliber team.

Dodgers Eye Alexis Diaz as Potential Closer Solution Amid Tanner Scott’s Injury and Bullpen Crisis

The Los Angeles Dodgers’ bullpen woes have reached critical levels following the placement of left-handed reliever Tanner Scott on the injured list with elbow inflammation. The $72 million signing had been struggling even before this setback, posting a 4.14 ERA through 45.2 innings. With Scott’s MRI results pending and concerns mounting about his availability moving forward, the Dodgers must act quickly to stabilize their late-game situation.

Cincinnati Reds closer Alexis Diaz has emerged as a primary trade target to address Los Angeles’s mounting bullpen concerns. The 28-year-old right-hander brings closer experience, having recorded 37 saves in 2023 with Cincinnati. While Diaz has struggled in Triple-A this season (9.64 ERA), his pedigree and the Dodgers’ renowned ability to develop pitchers make this potential acquisition intriguing.

The Dodgers’ bullpen situation reminds me of an owl’s nest during a storm – when the strongest branch breaks, you need to quickly reinforce the structure with materials at hand.

Why Diaz Makes Sense for Los Angeles

Three compelling reasons support Diaz as a potential solution:

• Proven track record in high-leverage situations (2.88 ERA from 2022-23)
• Premium swing-and-miss stuff (12.1 K/9 career rate)
• Existing relationship with Dodgers’ pitching coaches

Top Bullpen Trade Targets for Dodgers Beyond Alexis Diaz

While Diaz presents an interesting option, the Dodgers will likely explore multiple avenues:

A wise hunter always checks multiple traps – putting all your eggs in one basket rarely works in baseball’s trade market.

Assessing Tanner Scott’s Injury Impact

The severity of Scott’s elbow inflammation remains uncertain, but historical data suggests concerning possibilities:

• 40% of pitchers with similar symptoms require Tommy John surgery
• Average recovery time exceeds 14 months for serious cases
• Scott’s $72M contract becomes increasingly questionable

Organizational Depth: Dodgers’ Advantage Over 2021 Padres

While comparisons to San Diego’s failed 2021 bullpen experiment surface, key differences exist:

• Dodgers boast superior minor league pitching depth
• Los Angeles’s analytics department leads MLB in pitcher development
• Financial flexibility allows for multiple acquisitions

Unlike those Padre teams that crashed like fledglings, these Dodgers still have plenty of feathers to soften any landing.

Potential Internal Solutions for Dodgers Bullpen

Before making costly trades, Los Angeles should consider internal options:

• Ben Casparius’ 1.89 ERA at Triple-A deserves attention
• Converted starters might thrive in relief roles
• Minor league veterans could provide temporary stability

Rebuilding the Dodgers’ Bullpen Development System

The organization’s once-vaunted relief pipeline shows troubling signs:

• 2023-25 bullpen ERA ranks 18th in MLB
• Only two homegrown relievers on active roster
• Several reclamation projects have failed

It’s time for the Dodgers to stop importing owls and focus on hatching their own eggs again – sustainable bullpens grow from within.