Los Angeles Dodgers closer Tanner Scott has been a key player for the team since his acquisition, a move that many fans viewed as a step in the right direction given his impressive track record. However, the start of his tenure with the Dodgers has been rocky, marked by struggles that led to a stint on the 15-day injured list. Yet, recent developments indicate that Scott is not only back but has made significant adjustments to his delivery, resulting in noticeable improvement.
Performance in Recent Games
Since returning from the injured list on August 22, Tanner Scott has showcased his potential as a reliever by throwing scoreless innings in both of his outings. This strong start post-recovery raises optimism among Dodgers fans who were concerned about his earlier struggles this season. Prior to his injury, Scott had battled severe inconsistency, recorded a lackluster 8.10 ERA in July, and faced adversity by blowing saves that weighed heavily on his confidence and the team’s overall performance.
Delivery Tweaks Lead to Improvement
One aspect that has contributed significantly to Tanner Scott’s resurgence is his refinement of pitching mechanics. Upon returning, Scott revealed that he had been working with the Dodgers coaching staff to address some technical issues related to his delivery. The primary critique was that Scott had been opening his hips too quickly while heading down the mound, which resulted in a loss of velocity and effectiveness.
His slider, which is a critical component of his pitching arsenal, averaged just 88.2 mph before his injury. After identifying and correcting issues in his delivery, Scott has seen that number rise to an impressive 90.2 mph, effectively enhancing his pitching effectiveness. This minor adjustment has translated into more velocity on his slider, allowing for better performance on the mound. "My slider’s always been like 88 to 91,” Scott stated. “But now that I have my delivery back, it’s easier to throw it that hard again.”
This revelation underscores how seemingly small adjustments can lead to substantial improvements in a player’s performance, especially for record-holding athletes who rely heavily on precision and mechanics.
Background and Previous Success
Before joining the Dodgers on a four-year, $72 million contract, Tanner Scott had made a name for himself as a reliable closer with the Miami Marlins and San Diego Padres. He posted impressive ERAs of 2.54 in 2023 and 2.50 in the subsequent season, showcasing his capability to succeed at the highest levels of competition.
However, the transition to a new team and system can often pose challenges, as Scott experienced early in the season. His struggles came to a head with blown saves in March and May, which raised concerns about his ability to perform under pressure. Despite these struggles, the Dodgers management, led by manager Dave Roberts, remained committed to Scott, opting against making a trade for a replacement reliever at the trade deadline.
Managerial Trust and Organizational Stability
The decision to maintain faith in Scott despite his earlier performance issues reflects the Dodgers organization’s belief in his potential. This approach is indicative of a broader philosophy within sports management where patience can yield long-term benefits. As a team leading the NL West by two games, the Dodgers are in a strong position headed into favorable matchups against divisional competitors like the Arizona Diamondbacks.
Roberts’ trust in Scott can also be viewed as a testament to the player’s character and overall track record. The managerial strategy allows Scott the opportunity to rebuild confidence and regain his rhythm without excessive pressure, which could further complicate his recovery efforts.
Upcoming Challenges and Season Outlook
As the Dodgers gear up for a pivotal series against the Diamondbacks, all eyes will be on Tanner Scott to see if he can continue this upward trend. With the playoffs approaching, having a reliable closer is crucial for the Dodgers if they hope to make a deep postseason run.
Scott’s ability to maintain his velocity and command over his pitches will be critical in high-pressure situations typical of playoff baseball. The combination of his pitch velocity and the adjustments he has made could be pivotal in determining not just his personal success but also the overall success of the team.
Conclusion
In summary, Tanner Scott is presenting himself as a key player for the Dodgers as they head toward the final stretch of the season. After some initial struggles, his recent adjustment to his delivery has reinstated his effectiveness, as evidenced by his post-injury performance. The combination of his improved skills, managerial faith, and overall team dynamics sets the stage for exciting developments in the upcoming series and potentially a strong postseason performance.
As the Dodgers continue their quest for success in the National League, Tanner Scott’s resurgence could serve as a defining element—proving that with the right adjustments and unwavering support, even the most troubled starts can end on a high note.
