Tanner Scott's Redemption Arc: From Criticism to Dominance in 2026 The Los Angeles Dodgers' once-derided closer, Tanner Scott, has transformed from a polarizing figure in 2025 to a dominant lefty reliever in 2026, silencing critics who once questioned his role on the team. After a disastrous 2025 season marked by a 4.74 ERA, 15 blown saves, and a lack of postseason appearances, Scott’s resurgence has redefined his value to the Dodgers. By mid-May 2026, his performance has shifted the narrative entirely, with fans and analysts alike acknowledging his resurgence. Scott’s 2026 season has been nothing short of remarkable. Through May 24, he posted a 1.25 ERA, a 32.5% strikeout rate, and a 3.9% walk rate, showcasing his dominance in the late innings. His fastball averages nearly 97 mph, and he consistently throws first-pitch strikes to 75% of batters. These numbers contrast sharply with his 2025 struggles, where he posted a 4.74 ERA and led the league in blown saves. Advanced metrics further support his turnaround: his xERA of 2.97 and FIP of 2.39 indicate that his success is not merely a product of luck. His 17.9% swinging strike rate ranks seventh among relievers, underscoring his effectiveness against opposing hitters. The Dodgers’ strategic shift in Scott’s role has been pivotal to his revival. After acquiring Edwin Diaz in a three-year, $69 million deal over the winter, the team moved Scott from the closer role to a setup man, a position he thrived in during his time with the San Diego Padres. This adjustment alleviated the pressure of closing games and allowed Scott to leverage his matchup-based strengths. The results were immediate, with Scott delivering consistent performances in high-leverage situations.#los_angeles_dodgers #dave_roberts #andrew_friedman #edwin_diaz #tanner_scott
Clayton Kershaw joins Dodgers front office as special assistant Clayton Kershaw’s career with the Los Angeles Dodgers will officially last beyond his retirement. The future Hall of Famer is joining the organization as a special assistant, according to MLB.com’s Sonja Chen. The specifics of his role with the team are reportedly unclear, but Kershaw expressed his desire to remain involved with the club. “I think I’ll be involved … I still want to be a part of the Dodgers, so if I can help in some small piece, I will,” Kershaw said. Kershaw played his final MLB game last year, winning a second consecutive World Series championship with the Dodgers. He made a return to competitive baseball this spring by joining Team USA for the World Baseball Classic but did not appear in any games during the tournament. The Dodgers’ president of baseball operations, Andrew Friedman, reportedly approached Kershaw about a role in the team’s baseball operations department shortly after the Dodgers’ seven-game victory over the Toronto Blue Jays. Kershaw, who lives with his family in Dallas, declined the full-time offer, stating he did not see another long-term position in his future. Instead, Kershaw will now take on two part-time roles. In addition to his new position with the Dodgers, he is working as part of NBC’s new MLB broadcast crew this season. He made his television debut with the Dodgers’ Opening Day win over the Arizona Diamondbacks on Thursday. Kershaw has been a member of the Dodgers organization since the team drafted him seventh overall in the first round of the 2006 MLB Draft. He retired as an 11-time All-Star, three-time Cy Young Award winner, and former MVP, appearing on three World Series-winning teams. He is the club’s all-time strikeout leader with 3,052.#nbc #mlb #los_angeles_dodgers #clayton_kershaw #andrew_friedman
