MLB: NLDS Los Angeles Dodgers at San Diego Padres Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Ryan Brasier (57) throws in the first inning against the San Diego Padres during game four of the NLDS for the 2024 MLB Playoffs at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: Denis Poroy-Imagn Images

Chicago Cubs finally adding key Dodgers’ World Series pitcher to roster for Reds’ series

Originally posted on ChiCitySports | By Jordan Sigler | Last updated May 23, 2025 6:10 PM ET

The Chicago Cubs enter their series with the Cincinnati Reds this weekend riding a two-game win streak. The Cubs have a 5.5-game lead over the fourth-place Reds in the NL Central race. The St. Louis Cardinals have proven to be Chicago’s competition in the division so far, but they’re three games back from first place.

On Friday, the Cubs made a couple of roster moves ahead of the series, and the team will bring a big name to the pitching roster who is set to appear for Chicago in his second regular season contest after being traded from the Los Angeles Dodgers in February.

The Chicago Cubs reinstated Ryan Brasier

Per the Cubs, Ethan Roberts has been optioned to Triple-A. The Cubs are reinstating right-handed relief pitcher Ryan Braiser from the 15-day injured list.

Today's roster moves: pic.twitter.com/SeSN5HIsU2

— Chicago Cubs (@Cubs) May 23, 2025

Brasier appeared in the Cubs’ season-opening 4-1 loss to the Dodgers on March 18. He earned one strikeout, gave up one walk, and gave up an earned run in one inning pitched.

Chicago traded for Braiser on Feb. 4. At 37, he earned a 3.54 ERA during the 2024 regular season, helping Los Angeles win the World Series. He’s been dealing with a strained left groin since March.

Braiser should add help to a bullpen that is dealing with key injuries. Chicago lost Porter Hodge to the injured list this week as he deals with an oblique injury.

MLB: Chicago Cubs at San Francisco Giants Jun 26, 2024; San Francisco, California, USA; Chicago Cubs relief pitcher Porter Hodge (37) throws a pitch against the San Francisco Giants during the sixth inning at Oracle Park. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images

This article first appeared on ChiCitySports and was syndicated with permission.

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