Dodgers lose closer Scott due to lower body infection requiring surgery; earliest return expected by World Series

Following their 2-8 defeat to the Philadelphia Phillies in Game 3 of the NLDS, the Dodgers faced unclear news before Game 4 as the team announced that their main closer Tanner Scott requires surgery for a lower body abscess, ruling him out until at least the World Series. The Dodgers promptly called up left-hander Justin Wrobleski from the minors to fill the roster spot.

Scott has served as the Dodgers' closer this season but has yet to appear in any of the five playoff games played so far. After missing Game 3 of the Division Series, head coach Dave Roberts only cited "personal reasons" for his absence. However, before Game 4, Roberts shocked the public by confirming Scott was removed from the 26-man roster due to surgery needed for a lower body abscess.

Roberts explained that after returning to Los Angeles from the first two away games, the team noticed Scott’s physical issues but lacked detailed information at the time, so no immediate roster changes were made. After medical evaluation, surgery was deemed necessary. Roberts admitted, “This is definitely a blow for us; not only can he not pitch this round, even if we advance to the NLCS, he won’t be able to return in time.”

Currently, Scott is expected to have the earliest chance to return during the World Series, though Dodgers fans would rather not see him pitch again and are cautious about having high hopes.