The Chicago Cubs have taken decisive action this offseason, bolstering an already competitive bullpen through a strategic trade for Ryan Brasier from the Los Angeles Dodgers. This latest move reflects the Cubs’ continued commitment to enhancing their roster and demonstrates an aggressive approach to building a team capable of contending in the upcoming season. With an extensive offseason of transactions, the Cubs are prioritizing depth and performance, which is crucial for their ambitions moving forward.
At 37 years old, Ryan Brasier brings a wealth of experience, having been an integral part of the Dodgers’ World Series-winning squad. Despite being designated for assignment last week due to the Dodgers’ recent acquisitions of closers Kirby Yates and Tanner Scott, Brasier’s postseason contributions cannot be overstated. He pitched effectively during the playoffs, and his regular-season stats reveal a capable reliever with a 3.54 ERA across 28 innings. His addition is poised to inject further depth into the Cubs’ bullpen, especially considering the competition that will unfold as spring training approaches.
The Chicago bullpen is shaping up to be a highly competitive environment, with the recent arrivals of Brasier, Ryan Pressly from Houston, and Eli Morgan, along with returning players like Porter Hodge and Tyson Miller. Hodge, who closed games toward the end of the previous season, and Miller, who recorded an impressive 2.15 ERA over 50⅓ innings, are set to challenge for their roles. The inclusion of Brasier and Pressly positions the Cubs to have experienced options for high-pressure situations, a necessity in the long marathon of a baseball season.
The Cubs appear to be making shrewd investments that lay the groundwork for future success. Having acquired outfielder Kyle Tucker—who stands as a potential MVP candidate—alongside various strategic signings of both pitchers and position players, the front office is signaling an urgent strategy to compete now while also building for the future. Their multi-year contracts with players like Matthew Boyd and Carson Kelly exemplify this forward-thinking philosophy.
Brasier’s mix of a mid-90s fastball, solid slider, and cutter makes him an intriguing component of the Cubs’ plans, especially as spring training arrives. Despite a minor drop in velocity, his control remains impressive; only five walks and 25 strikeouts showcase a pitcher in tune with his abilities. Notably, the financial aspect also plays a role in Brasier’s trade, as he is signed for $4.5 million this season, an appealing contract for a reliever of his pedigree.
The overall strategy of enhancing the bullpen while adding promising players seems indicative of the Cubs’ intent to not only remain competitive in the current season but also establish a foundation that could support sustained success in future campaigns. As spring training approaches, fans and analysts alike will be keen to assess how these roster moves translate into performance on the field.