The Los Angeles Dodgers have bolstered their pitching staff this offseason, allowing other teams to pick up the pitchers they’ve let go. According to ESPN’s Jeff Passan, after designating reliever Ryan Brasier for assignment last week, the 2024 World Series champion is now being traded to the Chicago Cubs.
At 37, Ryan Brasier proved to be a reliable arm for the Dodgers over the past two seasons. However, with the additions of Tanner Scott and Kirby Yates, he became the odd man out in an already stacked bullpen. After joining Los Angeles from the Red Sox in 2023, Brasier posted an impressive 0.70 ERA over 38 2/3 innings and played a key role in the 2024 playoffs, even serving as an opener in bullpen games. Rather than retiring or waiting for a minor league deal, he will now have the opportunity to pitch meaningful innings for the Cubs.
Once the Dodgers designated him for assignment, they had a week to trade him before he would have to clear waivers. Chicago acted quickly, ensuring another team didn’t claim the eight-year MLB veteran. It remains unclear what the Dodgers are receiving in return, but it’s likely to be either cash considerations or a prospect or two from the Cubs.
