The Los Angeles Dodgers are heading into the 2025–26 offseason as two-time defending World Series champs. Even with all that dominance, one big weakness could mess with their shot at a third straight title — the bullpen.
The relief corps really struggled last season, and general manager Brandon Gomes has some tough choices ahead. Instead of chasing after flashy position players, most experts say the Dodgers should just lock down a proven closer to calm things down late in games.
Dodgers’ Bullpen Struggles in 2025
The team’s overall success didn’t carry over to the bullpen. Last season, Dodgers relievers put up a 4.27 ERA, which landed them in the league’s bottom third.
This wasn’t just about a couple of guys having bad years. Six of the eleven relievers who threw at least 25 innings had ERAs over 4.50, which really points to a bigger issue.
Offseason Misfires and Costly Contracts
Things got worse with some offseason moves that just didn’t work out. Veteran signings Kirby Yates and Blake Treinen both finished with ERAs north of 5.00, far from what the front office had in mind.
On top of that, Tanner Scott’s first year after signing a massive $72 million contract didn’t deliver, putting more pressure on both the payroll and the bullpen.
Where Should the Dodgers Spend? Experts Weigh In
ESPN’s Jeff Passan keeps saying the Dodgers should skip the expensive position player sweepstakes—guys like Kyle Tucker or Kyle Schwarber—and instead go all in on a top closer. That sense of security in the ninth inning could be what they’re missing.
Possible Targets: Edwin Díaz and Devin Williams
There are two names that keep coming up. Former Mets star Edwin Díaz is available and brings the kind of strikeout punch the Dodgers need.
Devin Williams, who almost landed in L.A. before heading to the Yankees, is now a free agent and still fits. Gomes has said pretty openly that Los Angeles could sign a high-end reliever this winter, and Williams remains on their radar.
Secondary Priorities: Adding a Contact Hitter
Even though the bullpen is the main thing, USA Today’s Bob Nightengale says the Dodgers are still looking at Guardians outfielder Steven Kwan. They nearly traded for him at the deadline, but talks fizzled out.
Kwan won’t come cheap, but the Dodgers have enough prospect depth to make a deal work if they want it badly enough.
Why Kwan Fits the Dodgers’ Lineup
Kwan’s elite contact skills and steady defense could really change the Dodgers’ offensive mix. He gets on base, creates chances, and might take some pressure off the sluggers in the middle of the lineup.
That could make an already scary offense even tougher to pitch to, honestly.
Key Offseason Decisions Ahead
For Gomes and the Dodgers’ front office, the offseason probably comes down to a few big things:
- Get a closer who can actually lock down the ninth.
- Find experienced setup guys who won’t melt under pressure.
- Look at trading for Steven Kwan if the price makes sense long-term.
- Don’t overspend on position players who won’t fix the real problems.
The Championship Window Remains Open
Even with bullpen concerns, Los Angeles still has one of baseball’s most balanced rosters. Their depth and postseason experience set them apart.
That farm system? It gives them a real edge, letting them retool fast without blowing up the future. The goal’s obvious—fix the late innings so the rotation and offense don’t go to waste.
The free-agent market is stacked with elite relief arms this year. The Dodgers have resources most teams can only dream about.
The 2025–26 offseason could be the one that decides if a championship three-peat actually happens. For fans and analysts, these next few months are going to be a wild mix of strategy and nerves.
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Here is the source article for this story: Free agency notes: Edwin Díaz, Devin Williams, Steven Kwan
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