Brasier, 37, was designated for assignment last week when the Dodgers’ deal with right-handed reliever Kirby Yates was finalized. He was a solid contributor on Los Angeles’ World Series-winning team, throwing nine innings during the postseason after posting a 3.54 ERA in 28 regular-season innings.
Los Angeles’ acquisitions of two closers — Yates and Tanner Scott — as well as re-signing Blake Treinen edged Brasier out of the Dodgers’ bullpen mix and gave Chicago the opportunity to add him to a bullpen that has been significantly strengthened in recent weeks. In addition to Brasier, the Cubs added closer Ryan Pressly in a trade with Houston and earlier this winter acquired right-hander Eli Morgan.
Chicago’s biggest deal of the winter was for outfielder Kyle Tucker, a perennial MVP candidate who is set to hit free agency after the 2025 season. Chicago signed left-hander Matthew Boyd to a two-year, $29 million contract, gave catcher Carson Kelly $11.5 million over two years, locked up right-hander Colin Rea on a one-year, $5 million deal and added left-hander Caleb Thielbar ($2.75 million) and utilityman Jon Berti ($2 million) on one-year pacts.
With a mid-90s fastball, a biting slider and a cutter, Brasier weathered early-career scuffles to turn in solid performances throughout his 30s. Though his fastball velocity dipped slightly last year, his precision — he walked only five batters and struck out 25 — served him well. The return for Brasier is not yet known.
Brasier, who will make $4.5 million this season in the second season of a two-year contract, joins a bullpen that should have strong competition for spots when spring camps open in just over a week. In addition to Brasier, Pressly, Morgan and Thielbar, the Cubs return right-hander Porter Hodge — who closed toward the end of the 2024 season — as well as right-hander Tyson Miller, who had a 2.15 ERA in 50.1 innings.
Other options in the Cubs’ bullpen include right-handers Nate Pearson, Keegan Thompson, Julian Merryweather, Ethan Roberts, Caleb Kilian and potentially Ben Brown, a starter who could prove a late-inning weapon if he does not crack Chicago’s rotation.
Mookie Betts, the Dodgers’ golden boy, embarks on a virtually unheard journey from outfield glory to infield conquest, defying norms and redefining versatility
Mookie Betts’ Unprecedented Transition: From Outfield Glory to Infield Conquest
In a surprising move that has left fans and analysts intrigued, the Los Angeles Dodgers have set their sights on an unconventional strategy for the upcoming 2025 season. The team’s decision to shift Mookie Betts, a six-time Gold Glove Award-winning outfielder, to the infield has sparked discussions and raised eyebrows across the baseball community.
A Bold Departure from the Norm
Amidst a roster brimming with established superstars and promising talents, the Dodgers’ choice to alter their lineup dynamics by moving Betts to the infield stands out as a bold departure from conventional practice. Despite the success of retaining their 2024 lineup and securing key acquisitions like Blake Snell, Tanner Banks, and Roki Sasaki, the team has opted for a radical repositioning of one of their most celebrated players.
The Rational Behind the Move
The rationale behind this unexpected maneuver was recently unveiled by Dodgers insider, Houson Mitchell. Shedding light on the team’s strategic thinking, Mitchell emphasized Betts’ personal inclination towards playing on the infield, a position he cherished during his formative years in baseball. Moreover, the shift is believed to offer Betts a reprieve from exhaustive in-game running, thereby ensuring his endurance and peak performance throughout the demanding season.
A Quest for Unprecedented Versatility
However, the most compelling aspect of Betts’ transition lies in his aspiration to redefine versatility in baseball. By aspiring to transition from an award-winning outfielder to a big-league caliber shortstop, Betts embarks on a journey that is virtually unheard of in the annals of the sport. His eagerness to prove his mettle in this new role signifies a profound commitment to personal growth and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
Navigating Challenges and Seizing Opportunities
While Betts’ previous stint at shortstop was cut short due to an unfortunate injury, the upcoming season presents a fresh opportunity for him to showcase his skills and adaptability on the field. Manager Dave Roberts’ decision to entrust Betts with this pivotal role underscores the team’s confidence in his abilities and underscores their willingness to explore uncharted territories in pursuit of success.
Implications for the Dodgers’ Lineup
With Betts poised to take on the role of a shortstop, the Dodgers face a reconfiguration in their outfield composition, with Teoscar Hernández, Tommy Edman, and Michael Conforto potentially assuming key positions. However, the success of Betts’ audacious endeavor remains uncertain, leaving room for adjustments and strategic realignments as the season unfolds.
Embracing Change and Embracing Possibilities
As Mookie Betts embarks on this unprecedented journey from outfield glory to infield conquest, he symbolizes a spirit of innovation, adaptability, and relentless pursuit of excellence. His determination to challenge norms, push boundaries, and redefine his capabilities embodies the essence of a true sportsman—a testament to the enduring allure of baseball’s ever-evolving narrative.
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