The Los Angeles Dodgers are once again reshaping the landscape of Major League Baseball’s offseason. One year after claiming another World Series title, the Dodgers are clearing space, recalibrating, and — as Bob Nightengale of USA Today described — preparing to “be as aggressive as anyone” in pursuit of bullpen help.
With nearly $87 million in payroll flexibility following the departures of Clayton Kershaw, Michael Conforto, Chris Taylor, and Kirby Yates, the Dodgers have positioned themselves to chase another high-impact reliever. “They’ll still be as aggressive as anyone and will come away at the least with a high-priced closer,” Nightengale reported.
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The Bullpen Question
Vote For Your Favorite Dodgers Duo: Ohtani – Yamamoto, Betts – Freeman, Hernandez – Hernandez
Los Angeles’ pursuit of relief help comes as no surprise. Their biggest gamble last winter, a four-year, $72 million deal for Tanner Scott, hasn’t delivered the dominance they expected. Scott’s 4.31 ERA was his worst mark since 2021, a steep drop from the 2.04 ERA he posted across the previous two seasons. Despite leading the team in saves, his lack of command forced manager Dave Roberts to rely more heavily on Rōki Sasaki in postseason situations.
Complicating matters further, setup man Evan Phillips — the club’s most consistent late-inning presence since 2022 — underwent Tommy John surgery in June and will likely miss most of 2026. With uncertainty surrounding both arms, the Dodgers simply can’t afford to enter next season without a proven finisher.
Edwin Díaz Tops the Wishlist
At the top of the list is Edwin Díaz, the former Mets star who opted out of his contract and hit the open market after rediscovering his form in 2025. One year removed from a knee injury that sidelined him for the World Baseball Classic, Díaz looked like his old self — electric fastball, vicious slider, and a swagger built for October.
ESPN’s Jeff Passan sees the fit as obvious. “The most obvious move is to hope the second time’s a charm in spending big money on a closer after Tanner Scott’s disappearing act this year. Sign free agent closer Edwin Diaz,” Passan wrote.
Industry insiders predict Díaz will command a four-year, $88 million contract, roughly $22 million per season — a price the Dodgers can afford and one that would weaken a potential National League rival in New York. Over his last four seasons, Díaz has recorded 20-plus saves each year with an ERA under 1.75 in two of his last three, reaffirming his place among the game’s elite closers.
Ryan Helsley Represents an Intriguing Alternative
If Díaz signs elsewhere, the Dodgers could pivot to Ryan Helsley, who led the league in saves in 2024 and remains one of baseball’s hardest throwers. While his 2025 numbers dipped slightly, scouts still rave about his 100-mph heater and improved command. Helsley’s potential availability via trade or short-term free agency makes him a legitimate backup plan — one that could cost less but still deliver elite performance.
For Los Angeles, Helsley offers something appealing: power stuff without a long-term financial risk. He’s younger than Díaz and has shown he can dominate under pressure, particularly in the postseason.
The Empire Expands
Once again, the Dodgers aren’t patching holes — they’re reinforcing an empire. Their strategy remains familiar: identify weaknesses early, spend decisively, and turn luxury into leverage. Whether it’s Edwin Díaz, Ryan Helsley, or another marquee reliever, Los Angeles will not wait for the market to settle.
The Dodgers have cash to burn, rings to defend, and a championship window that shows no sign of closing. If recent history is any indication, they’ll do what they always do best — outspend, outthink, and outlast everyone else.