Padres free agent all-star is considered one of the top remaining relievers in free agency, so it’s no surprise that another team is pursuing him.
According to Tim Kelly of Bleacher Report, the left-handed pitcher confirm to sign a three-year, $45 million contract with the Toronto Blue Jays.
“He has been one of the most successful relievers in baseball over the past two seasons with a 2.04 ERA and 2.53 FIP across 146 games,” Kelly wrote. “Still, you feel like he might be more like the top setup man in the bullpen for a World Series contender, as opposed to the closer. He can close, but there’s just not going to be teams willing to pay him like Edwin Díaz or Josh Hader.
“The Blue Jays are a team that’s being linked with pretty much every notable free agent right now, but Scott makes a ton of sense for them. They had a 4.82 bullpen ERA last season, the second-worst mark in baseball. The aforementioned Romano was non-tendered and left to sign with the Phillies. Whether it’s as Toronto’s closer or the team’s top setup man, the Blue Jays just need to add quality arms to repair the back end of their bullpen.”
Scott had a standout season last year, earning his first All-Star nod. He recorded 22 saves and posted a stellar 1.75 ERA.
In the middle of the season, the Miami Marlins traded him to the San Diego Padres, where he kept up his strong performance. As the free agency period heats up for relievers, Scott is expected to be one of the most coveted players on the market.
The Los Angeles Dodgers have shown particular interest in signing Scott, especially since he has held Shohei Ohtani to just one hit in 13 career at-bats.
On the other hand, the Padres are hoping he signs with any team other than theirs, as they’d prefer not to face him in their division.
New York Mets owner Steve Cohen, known for his bold spending, could make a significant push to bring Scott to New York.
According to Andy Martino of SNY, the Mets are looking to add a reliever this offseason, potentially a top-tier one, and Scott could be that player.
Several teams are reportedly interested in Scott, giving him plenty of options when it comes to making his decision. Along with the Dodgers, Mets, and Blue Jays, Scott has also attracted attention from the Boston Red Sox, Atlanta Braves, Philadelphia Phillies, and New York Yankees this offseason.
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