The Dodgers, who have long been active in pursuing top bullpen talent, are reportedly no longer among the teams chasing Tampa Bay Rays closer Pete Fairbanks. The right-hander became a free agent after the Rays declined his $11 million club option for 2026, making him one of the most sought-after relief pitchers in the offseason.
Fairbanks enjoyed a strong 2025 campaign, recording 27 saves with a 2.83 ERA across 60.1 innings. His fastball-slider combination has made him an attractive option for teams looking to bolster late-inning pitching. Initially, L.A. appeared poised to make a serious run at the reliever, aiming to add a reliable arm to a bullpen that has been inconsistent at times.
However, according to reliable sources, the Dodgers have now stepped back from the chase. Front-office caution appears to be a driving factor. Following mixed results from last season’s bullpen acquisitions — including Tanner Scott, Kirby Yates, and Blake Treinen — the team seems wary of committing to another high-profile reliever whose long-term performance and durability remain uncertain.
Instead, the Dodgers may rely on internal options such as Kyle Hurt and Ben Casparius to fill key bullpen roles. This strategy preserves payroll flexibility while minimizing risk, though it may leave the team without a proven veteran closer to anchor the late innings.
For fans, this development signals a shift in Dodgers’ approach: rather than making aggressive free-agent splashes, the organization is leaning on homegrown talent and calculated moves. While the decision might surprise some, it reflects a broader emphasis on sustainable bullpen management and long-term roster flexibility.
As the offseason progresses, Los Angeles may still explore other bullpen upgrades, but for now, the Fairbanks pursuit appears to be off the table — leaving questions about how the team will secure a dominant closer for the 2026 season.
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