The Chicago Cubs have bolstered their bullpen by acquiring right-hander Ryan Brasier from the Los Angeles Dodgers, following his release last week. In exchange, the Cubs will send either a player to be named later or cash to the Dodgers. Last season, Brasier posted a 3.54 ERA and secured one win over 29 appearances, including four starts. His addition comes as part of the Cubs' efforts to enhance their roster in pursuit of a playoff return since 2020.

Brasier, 37, is in the second year of a two-year contract worth $4.5 million, with the potential to enter free agency after the World Series. His tenure with the Dodgers was marred by injury, leading to a long absence from the mound. Previously, he made his MLB debut with the Angels in 2013 and has also played for the Boston Red Sox. His career statistics show a 3.85 ERA over 297 games, marking him as a seasoned addition to the Cubs' roster.

Ryan Brasier has officially been traded from the Los Angeles Dodgers to the Chicago Cubs, marking the end of his tenure with the team. This decision came after the 37-year-old reliever was designated for assignment, a move necessary to clear roster space for newly signed Kirby Yates. The Dodgers had been actively seeking trade opportunities for Brasier before finalizing the deal with the Cubs.

In the 2024 season, Brasier posted a 3.54 ERA but struggled with injuries, missing significant time due to a calf issue. The Dodgers will also provide cash considerations to the Cubs to help offset Brasier's $4.5 million salary for the upcoming season. In return, the Dodgers will either receive a player to be named later or additional cash considerations, making this a strategic move in reshaping their bullpen.

During his two seasons with the Dodgers, Brasier recorded an impressive 1.89 ERA, including a remarkable 0.70 ERA in 39 appearances throughout 2023, earning him a two-year contract extension. However, with the recent additions of Yates and left-hander Tanner Scott, Brasier found himself in a crowded bullpen, leading to this trade.

The Los Angeles Dodgers have bolstered their bullpen by signing veteran right-hander Kirby Yates to a one-year, $13 million contract. This move follows their recent acquisition of Tanner Scott, who joined the World Series champions on a four-year, $72 million deal. Yates, who had a stellar 2023 season with a career-low 1.17 ERA and 33 saves for Texas, adds significant experience to the Dodgers' relief corps. In his career, Yates has posted a 3.17 ERA with 95 saves over 422 appearances, previously excelling with teams such as the Padres, Yankees, and Braves. To make room on the 40-man roster, the Dodgers designated Ryan Brasier for assignment.

The Los Angeles Dodgers have made significant strides in bolstering their pitching staff during the offseason, culminating in the recent signing of veteran reliever Kirby Yates to a one-year, $13 million contract. Yates, who recorded an outstanding 1.17 ERA with 33 saves last season, is viewed as a key addition to a bullpen that aims for greater depth after injuries plagued the team last year.

This offseason, the Dodgers have not been shy about investing in pitching, highlighted by the acquisition of two-time Cy Young winner Blake Snell for $182 million and the addition of Tanner Scott for $72 million. The emphasis on strengthening the pitching roster reflects the team's commitment to returning to championship contention.

General Manager Brandon Gomes praised Yates for his veteran presence, which he believes will elevate the performance of the bullpen. In a tough decision, the team designated Ryan Brasier for assignment to make room for Yates, indicating the depth of talent now available to manager Dave Roberts.