Ryan Brasier’s Impressive Stint with the 2023 Dodgers Bullpen: Will He Return?
A look back at the standout performance of reliever Ryan Brasier in the Dodgers' 2023 bullpen and speculation on his future with the team.
In the 2023 season, the Los Angeles Dodgers witnessed one of the most remarkable bullpen performances in recent memory. Despite a disappointing postseason exit, the Dodgers’ bullpen stood out as a shining beacon of success, boasting an impressive ERA of 3.42, ranking third in the league, along with 44 saves, a 1.17 WHIP, and an impressive 664 strikeouts.
Key Takeaways:
- The 2023 Dodgers bullpen posted an ERA of 3.42, ranking third in the league, accompanied by 44 saves, a 1.17 WHIP, and an impressive 664 strikeouts.
- Ryan Brasier, a veteran reliever who joined the Dodgers mid-season, emerged as a bright spot in the bullpen, delivering outstanding performances.
- Despite his exceptional contributions, there are speculations about Brasier’s future with the team, with some insiders suggesting he may not return for the upcoming season.
The Dodgers’ 2023 season, while marred by postseason disappointment, showcased some exceptional talent in their bullpen. Among these standouts was right-handed veteran reliever Ryan Brasier, whose journey with the team was nothing short of remarkable.
Brasier’s story began when he signed a minor league contract with the Dodgers in early June. After a stellar stint with the Oklahoma City Dodgers, he earned his promotion to the big league in just 15 days. From there, Brasier consistently dazzled on the mound for the Dodgers, leaving fans and analysts alike in awe.
During his time with the Boys in Blue, the 36-year-old Brasier boasted an impressive 0.70 ERA, recording 38 strikeouts while allowing only 18 hits and one homer in 39 games. These numbers made him an invaluable asset to the Dodgers’ bullpen.
However, despite Brasier’s extraordinary contributions, there are doubts about his future with the Dodgers. Notably, J.P. Hoornstra, a respected Dodgers insider for the Orange County Register, has expressed skepticism about Brasier’s return to the team. His departure could be a significant loss for the bullpen.
“I think when you’re at that point in your career — roughly mid-30s — you get a multi-year offer, you take it. And I don’t know that the Dodgers are willing to extend themselves on a multi-year deal on Ryan Brasier, especially when you have the option on Joe Kelly who hasn’t been as healthy but basically fills the same role. … I think Brasier is going to have a multi-year offer [somewhere else] and I think when the Dodgers think about their priorities, with respect to Shohei Ohtani and the starting pitchers that they’re looking at, those guys take top priority.”
(per J.P. Hoornstra via Dodgers Nation YouTube)
One of the challenges with relievers in baseball is their consistency from one season to the next. The Dodgers’ front office faces a crucial decision on how to address the relief position, considering their numerous needs. The fate of Ryan Brasier in Dodger blue hangs in the balance, and only time will reveal the team’s approach to this pivotal decision.
As the offseason progresses, Dodgers fans will anxiously await news regarding Brasier’s future with the team, hoping to see the return of the ace reliever who brought a glimmer of hope to the 2023 season.
