Cubs dump gifted player for superstar reliever

The Chicago Cubs have acquired right-handed reliever Ryan Brasier from the Los Angeles Dodgers in exchange for a player to be named later or cash considerations. Brasier, 37, was designated for assignment by the Dodgers last week after they signed Kirby Yates. He has been a productive arm when healthy, posting a 0.70 ERA with 38 strikeouts over 38 2/3 innings with the Dodgers in 2023.

Brasier wasn’t as sharp last season, pitching to a 3.54 ERA across 28 innings, and missed over three months due to a right calf strain. However, he recorded a career-low 4.5% walk rate and a 34.8% chase rate, which was well above the league average.

The Cubs have been rebuilding their bullpen, and Brasier is the latest notable addition, joining free-agent pickup Caleb Thielbar and trade acquisitions Eli Morgan and Ryan Pressly. Brasier has extensive playoff experience from his six years with the Boston Red Sox, where he won two World Series.

Brasier is excited to join the Cubs and bring his repertoire to Wrigley Field. He said, “If my fastball and slider are where they need to be, that’s when I’m going good. I’m just super excited to be a part of this group.” The Cubs designated left-handed pitcher Rob Zastryzny for assignment to make room on the 40-man roster for Brasier.