Dodgers Still Targeting 'High-Leverage Reliever' in Free Agency

12/31/2024 06:24 PM

The Los Angeles Dodgers brought back their top reliever in 2024 when they signed Blake Treinen to a two-year deal, but there is still more work to be done. The Dodgers are still targeting a high-leverage reliever this winter, according to Jack Harris of the Los Angeles Times.

The Dodgers were reportedly close to trading for changeup specialist Devin Williams, but lost out on the reliever to the New York Yankees. Since then, there has been speculation the Dodgers have pivoted to signing free agent reliever Tanner Scott.

In 2017, the All-Star began his major league career with the Baltimore Orioles where he recorded a 4.73 ERA over 170 appearances in five seasons. Since then, the left-hander has emerged as one of the best relievers in baseball posting a 1.75 ERA in 72 games with the Miami Marlins and San Diego Padres during the 2024 season.

President of baseball operations Andrew Friedman said the Dodgers are hoping to avoid any last minute trades at the deadline in July. Therefore, the team must have a complete roster by spring training. The Dodgers began the offseason with the blockbuster signing of free agent ace Blake Snell. The Dodgers extended Tommy Edman and re-signed both Treinen and Teoscar Hernández. The Dodgers continued to address needs on the roster by signing outfielder Michael Conforto.

The Dodgers are close to having another successful offseason, but not quite there. In a perfect world, the Dodgers will add Roki Sasaki to the starting rotation and a high-leverage reliever in the bullpen. However, Sasaki isn’t expected to sign with a team until the next international signing period which opens on Jan. 15. Sasaki’s decision will likely remain a mystery until then.