The Los Angeles Dodgers are confronting uncertainty in their bullpen after placing closer Tanner Scott on the injured list due to left elbow inflammation this week. Scott’s absence raises questions about who will take over the critical ninth-inning role, central to the Dodgers’ efforts to secure late-game leads. Although an MRI revealed no ligament damage, the injury sidelines Scott for at least 15 days, casting doubt on the team‘s closer strategy in the near term.
Trevor Megill Joins Elite Ranks with Impressive Saves Performance
While the Dodgers adjust to Scott’s injury, Milwaukee Brewers’ Trevor Megill has steadily climbed into the elite closer tier. Megill has maintained a streak of five perfect innings, adding two saves this past week to reach 23 saves for the season. The 31-year-old right-hander boasts a 2.27 ERA with a 1.09 WHIP and an impressive strikeout-to-walk ratio (43 strikeouts against 15 walks) over 35 2/3 innings, solidifying his reputation as one of the league’s most reliable late-inning pitchers.
Top-Ranking Closers Continue to Dominate Their Roles
Josh Hader of the Houston Astros and Andrés Muñoz of the Seattle Mariners remain firmly at the pinnacle of closer standings. Hader successfully converted his 26th save early last week and maintains a strong 2.31 ERA and 0.86 WHIP. Muñoz, with a 1.42 ERA and 22 saves, continues to impress alongside Hader with consistent strikeout numbers and dependable outings. Their performance highlights the stiff competition for the lead closer status among Major League Baseball’s top relievers.
Expanding the Elite Closer Tier with Consistent Performers
Multiple closers sit just below the top tier, including Edwin Díaz of the New York Mets and Aroldis Chapman of the Boston Red Sox. Díaz, despite a rare blown save, remains effective with 21 saves and a streak of critical strikeouts. Chapman contributed with a clean inning last Monday. Other solid performers in this group include Jhoan Duran of the Minnesota Twins, Emmanuel Clase of the Cleveland Guardians, and Robert Suarez of the San Diego Padres. Clase recorded three saves this week, and Suarez leads the league with 29 saves, underscoring their vital roles for their teams.
Reliable Options Filling Bullpen Roles Across MLB
The third tier features dependable closers like Mason Miller (Athletics), Félix Bautista (Orioles), and Devin Williams (Yankees), who provide stability despite varying challenges. Bautista, for example, is a notable figure heading into the trade deadline, holding 19 saves and strong underlying metrics, even amid control issues. Additionally, Emilio Pagán of the Cincinnati Reds secured his 21st save during the week, demonstrating consistent relief strength with a 2.83 ERA and solid strikeout numbers. Pittsburgh’s David Bednar also continues to compile saves with multiple scoreless outings.
Dodgers Explore Closer Alternatives in Scott’s Absence
Following Tanner Scott’s injury, the Dodgers are likely to leverage a combination of Kirby Yates and Alex Vesia to cover eighth and ninth inning duties. Yates recently notched a save against the Minnesota Twins, signaling his readiness to assume closing responsibilities. Meanwhile, Blake Treinen is on track for a return from the injured list before the month’s end and may rejoin the Dodgers’ saves conversation upon activation. This bullpen shuffle will be crucial as the Dodgers seek to maintain their edge in late-game situations.
Other Teams’ Closer Situations and Emerging Talent
The Philadelphia Phillies haven’t recorded any saves this week, with relievers Matt Strahm and Orion Kerkering sharing responsibilities, potentially prompting the franchise to seek a dedicated closer at the trade deadline. Kyle Finnegan of the Washington Nationals recently claimed his first save since early June, despite recent challenges reflected in an inflated ERA. Texas Rangers’ Robert Garcia added two saves in the last week, demonstrating improved effectiveness and solidifying his role as an option in save situations.
Up-and-Coming Relievers Displaying Promise
Adrian Morejon of the San Diego Padres is gaining attention for his versatile use and performance, including earning his eighth win of the season along with two saves. With a 1.76 ERA and a 0.78 WHIP over 46 innings, the 26-year-old left-hander’s growing value was recognized with a 2025 All-Star selection. Similarly, Cleveland’s Erik Sabrowski is resuming his promising trajectory following an elbow setback. The 27-year-old lefty has recorded 15 strikeouts over 9 1/3 scoreless innings this season, hinting at his potential to rise within the reliever ranks.
Significance and Outlook for Dodgers’ Bullpen Moving Forward
The absence of Tanner Scott presents both a challenge and an opportunity for the Dodgers’ bullpen. Scott’s proven track record as closer makes filling his role a critical concern for the team’s performance in tight contests. The potential committee approach using Kirby Yates and Alex Vesia, supplemented by the anticipated return of Blake Treinen, reflects a tactical adjustment aimed at preserving bullpen strength. If these relievers can deliver under pressure, the Dodgers may sustain their late-inning success despite Scott’s injury. Meanwhile, continued monitoring of emerging talent across <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/baseball/mlb/”>MLB highlights the dynamic landscape of relief pitching as teams prepare for playoff pushes.