The Los Angeles Dodgers bullpen projects to be a strength for the team this season, particularly with the additions of Tanner Scott and Kirby Yates, and Blake Treinen being re-signed.
Bolstering their bullpen with the signing of Yates required the Dodgers to make room on their 40-man roster, which was achieved by designating Ryan Brasier for assignment.
“I think just kind of the timing of it,” Dodgers general manager Brandon Gomes explained of the Brasier DFA decision. “Obviously, Brasier has been great for us.
“As we look out, how the bullpen is built and potentially needing some flexibility down the road, unfortunately Bras was the move. He’s been incredible for us. Great teammate, great dude. There’s a bunch of factors. It never feels good, but that was pretty much the reason.”
There theoretically was the potential of the Dodgers trying to delay making Yates’ signing official until they could begin utilizing the 60-day injured list when their pitchers and catchers report for Spring Training on Feb. 10.
“I just don’t know how we would’ve done that,” Gomes said. “We would’ve needed a roster spot in some shape or form. Felt like as looking at the roster, it’s a good thing when your roster is that talented. But it obviously creates difficult decisions.”
Now the Dodgers are hopeful to trade Brasier, which they reportedly began pursuing shortly before finalizing the signing of Yates. However, the more likely scenario is Brasier clears waivers as teams look to avoid paying his $4.5 million salary for 2025 and instead sign the right-hander for the league minimum.
Just 12 months ago, the Dodgers signed Ryan Brasier to a two-year, $9 million deal that represented just the eighth multiyear free-agent contract Friedman has ever given to a reliever. Thursday, Brasier was designated for assignment, a reliever eliminated from a crowded picture.
The Dodgers signed Brasier to a two-year, $9 million contract last February. His deal included potential to reach $13 million in total value through incentives.
Brasier does not have any Minor League options remaining.
Ryan Brasier’s Dodgers stats
Brasier had been with the Dodgers since June 2023, joining the club after being DFA’d and released by the Boston Red Sox. The 37-year-old went 3-0 with a 1.89 ERA, 2.83 FIP and 0.83 WHIP across 68 appearances (four starts) during his Dodgers career.
However, he pitched in just 29 games last year due to missing a majority of the first half because of a right calf strain.
