Dodgers Reportedly Competing With 5 Teams for Free Agent Who is a world class player with Great Records attached to Him
One of the few areas that the Dodgers haven’t really addressed this offseason has been their bullpen. The team ended last season with one of the better bullpens in the entire league, so it hasn’t been a necessity for the front office.
The team did re-sign reliever Joe Kelly, but they are now looking to potentially upgrade the bullpen. One of the key pieces for the Dodgers from last season was right-hander Ryan Brasier, who is currently a free agent.
The Dodgers have reportedly been interested in bringing him back. According to The New York Post’s Jon Heyman, they will have some stiff competition in order to do so.
Typically, the Dodgers’ front office has been hesitant to hand out large free-agent contracts to relief pitchers, so Brasier may be gone. However, his success with the team last season could see the organization go away from their normal spending.
Brasier joined the Dodgers last June on a minor-league contract, and he worked his way up to the big-league club. From there, he was special for the Dodgers.
He posted an ERA of 0.70 and a WHIP of 0.72 over 39 games for the team. Brasier also struck out 38 batters over 38.2 innings of work.
Despite his success with the team, there is no guarantee he will be able to replicate the production. He will be turning 37 next season, and prior to landing with the Dodgers, he posted an ERA of 7.29 over 20 games with the Boston Red Sox.
In recent years, we have seen other free-agent relievers from the Dodgers cash out on the open market. Chris Martin comes to mind from last season, and Brandon Morrow from a few years ago.
Brasier may have priced out himself with the Dodgers, as he is set up to land a lucrative contract. It would be great if he were to return to L.A., but it remains to be seen.
