The Los Angeles Dodgers have been thin in the bullpen already. That limited depth may be tested even more now. It’s nearly been unmanageable for the team with their four key relievers on the injured list. From Evan Phillips and Blake Treinen to Michael Kopech and Brusdar Graterol, all their high-leverage relievers are out right now. Just when it couldn’t get any worse, the Dodgers’ $72 million lefty reliever is likely bound for a stint on the injured list.

Tanner Scott landed with the Dodgers during the last offseason on a four-year, $72 million contract. He pitched two-thirds of an inning before he exited Monday night’s game against the Minnesota Twins. He walked a batter and hit another before he departed with a “sting sensation” in his forearm.

After the game, skipper Dave Roberts held a media availability where he issued an update on Scott’s injury. He shared that Scott “emotionally is not well.” Additionally, he is scheduled for an MRI tomorrow, July 23.

Scott felt the sensation during one pitch and not throughout his outing. “I’m not sure what pitch it was, but he said he felt like a sting,” Roberts told the reporters. “I think it was probably the pitch before I went out there… There was an X-ray, there was manual testing, and both those were positive. So that’s a good thing.” After Scott exited, he was replaced by Kirby Yates, who almost gave up the lead at one point. But then, James Outman robbed Carlos Correa of a tying three-run homer that helped the Dodgers secure a 5-2 win over the Twins.

Scott has displayed a fair share of brilliance. However, he hasn’t been consistent in the ninth inning. Across 47 games, he has posted 19 saves but holds a concerning 4.14 ERA. Still, he has been the Dodgers’ primary closer. Even with his brief absence, the Dodgers could face a serious roster crisis. Roberts also emphasized the same.

Scott has been the Dodgers’ primary closer since signing with them last offseason. While he has 19 saves, his 4.14 ERA has been inconsistent. “We were already looking for bullpen help. Now we might need a legitimate back-end arm,” Roberts added. Scott’s setback could easily push the Dodgers to add another strong arm ahead of the July 31 Trade Deadline.

Relief pitchers: Dodgers’ top priority this deadline

It has been quite evident that the Dodgers have been navigating through a shaky stretch as of late. They have had seven piled-up losses in their last nine games before the 2025 All-Star break. The injury bug has brutally bitten their pitching side, especially the bullpen.

The trade deadline is just a few days away, as so is the Dodgers’ chance to make moves to address their needs. According to many analysts, including ESPN and The Athletic, the Dodgers are expected to be among the most aggressive buyers aiming for back-end relievers.

That means they are targeting closers who can save games in the last innings. Their current relievers? All are either injured or struggling. So, at this deadline, the Dodgers are eyeing Jhoan Duran and Griffin Jax from the Minnesota Twins.

Both have been doing well this season, especially Duran, who has recorded a 1.66 ERA this season. Meanwhile, Jax held a 3.92 ERA this season. Plus, the Dodgers, known for their good payroll, wouldn’t mind investing in these two even if they are expensive. The Dodgers’ bullpen was ranked 24th in terms of ERA, which is not great for a championship contender. So, let’s keep a close eye on who they eventually acquire to fill their gaps.