The Boston Red Sox would benefit from adding one more arm to their bullpen, and they may look for a trade partner from the most contentious team of the winter.
The Los Angeles Dodgers appear to have signed all of the key names in free agency. From Blake Snell mega-deals to overseas signings like Roki Sasaki, Dave Roberts’ team put their money and influence around. LA wasn’t done after signing Tanner Scott and Kirby Yates, the top relievers on the market.
Boston was linked to the two pitchers, but nothing transpired. However, with all of the additions the Dodgers made, they were left with important decisions to make. According to Bob Nightengale of USA Today, they are gauging interest in Ryan Braiser in order to clear room on the 40-man roster for their major signings. The righthander is owed $4.5 million.
Is a reunion with the Red Sox possible?
Braiser played the most of his major league career with Boston. He helped them win the World Series in 2018, but his output decreased in his final years at Fenway Park. The Red Sox designated him for assignment, and he was picked up by Los Angeles. He had a comeback and was counted on in the postseason as an opener in bullpen games.
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In 2024, Braiser leaned on his slider 42.4% of the time and reduced his fastball usage to 29.4%, according to Baseball Savant. This could be because the 37-year-old’s fastball isn’t as quick as it once was. However, that pitching mix may be something Andrew Bailey and his staff can work with.
Alex Cora is a big supporter of Braiser, and if the Red Sox need bullpen depth, he wouldn’t be a bad choice.
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