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Cubs capitalize on the Dodgers greed in Ryan Brasier trade

Originally posted on ChiCitySports | By Tyler Koerth | Last updated Feb 5, 2025 8:52 AM ET

The Chicago Cubs , through patience and timing, have capitalized on the Los Angeles Dodgers greed as they acquired reliever Ryan Brasier via trade . He has been excellent over the past two seasons, evidenced by a 1.89 ERA, and should be a high leverage relief option for manager Craig Counsell.

Ryan Brasier was the odd man out of the Los Angeles Dodgers bullpen

A few weeks ago, Brasier was listed as a trade candidate due to the Dodgers reportedly needing to free up space on their 40-man roster. These rumors came shortly after Los Angeles had signed position players Teoscar Hernandez and Hyesong Kim as well as pitchers Roki Sasak and Tanner Scott, but before they acquired Kirby Yates. After Yates signed, Brasier was subsequently designated for assignment and traded to the Cubs.

What did the Chicago Cubs give up in order to acquire Ryan Brasier?

In addition to receiving Brasier, who is set to make $4.5 million in 2025, the Cubs also got Los Angeles to pay a portion of his salary. Chicago’s cost is parting ways with either a player to be named later or cash considerations. Had Jed Hoyer reached out a few weeks earlier, when Brasier was first made available, Los Angeles might have asked for more in return. However, with the risk of losing him for nothing, the Dodgers ultimately agreed to this deal.

Rob Zastryzny was designated for assignment

In order to make room on the 40-man roster for Brasier, Rob Zastryzny was designated for assignment. He was claimed off of waivers from the Milwaukee Brewers earlier this off-season. The Cubs 40-man roster is currently full.

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

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