Following their triumph in the 2024 World Series, the Los Angeles Dodgers continued dominating the offseason as the organization’s apparently inexhaustible financial resources have resulted in the acquisition of an astonishing quantity of talent. The Dodgers’ latest maneuver, securing All-Star closer Kirby Yates with a one-year, $13 million contract, comes shortly after LA’s four-year, $72 million agreement with All-Star closer Tanner Scott.
Nevertheless, the Dodgers seemingly recognize that they can’t realistically maintain all the relievers. In fact, should they wish to integrate their newly acquired bullpen assets into the squad, they’ll need to create space. Consequently, Los Angeles has designated Ryan Brasier for assignment, as reported by Dodgers journalist Fabian Ardaya on X. This move clears a spot on the 40-man roster for Yates.
Brasier has spent the previous two seasons in Los Angeles. Despite grappling with injuries throughout the 2024 season, the veteran right-hander excelled out of the bullpen in 2023. During that year, Brasier recorded a 0.70 ERA, a 0.725 WHIP, and 38 strikeouts across 38.2 innings pitched.
This impressive performance led the Dodgers to sign Brasier to a two-year, $9 million contract before the 2024 season. However, now that LA has fortified its bullpen with Scott and Yates, Brasier has unexpectedly become surplus to requirements.
The Dodgers no longer require reliever Ryan Brasier
The Dodgers aim to locate a trade partner for Brasier, who is scheduled to earn $4.5 million in 2025. After designating the pitcher for assignment, LA has seven days to trade him before he is launched into free agency. A trade is certainly feasible as Brasier remains regarded as a strong reliever. The Dodgers simply have superior bullpen options at this time. Naturally.
Scott became one of the most sought-after relief pitchers as teams competed for his services at the previous season’s trade deadline. The Miami Marlins eventually traded him to the San Diego Padres. Between both teams, Scott recorded a 1.75 ERA, a 1.125 WHIP, and an ERA+ of 252 with 84 strikeouts in 72 innings pitched. The left-handed reliever tallied 22 saves and concluded the season with 4 bWAR.
Even though Yates is eight years older, his statistics last season were even more impressive, as the former Texas Rangers’ closer boasted a 1.17 ERA, a 0.827 WHIP, an ERA+ of 340, and 85 strikeouts in 61.2 innings pitched. He also achieved 33 saves. Alongside earning his second All-Star Game selection, Yates placed eighth in AL Cy Young voting.
Clearly, these exceptional acquisitions allow the Dodgers to seamlessly move on from an accomplished reliever like Brasier. The Dodgers have undoubtedly elevated their performance this offseason, spending money as if they are a carefree sailor on leave… with an extraordinary knack for identifying pitching talent.
LA has incorporated Blake Snell and Roki Sasaki into the starting rotation, alongside Scott and Yates in the bullpen. Additionally, Shohei Ohtani is anticipated to return to the mound in 2025. While the remainder of MLB may not be thrilled about the spending spree, the Dodgers are committed to enhancing their roster. The outcome could potentially be a multiyear dynasty. That disrupts baseball. Unless you’re a Dodgers supporter.
Image Source: Kirby Yates @ Instagram
