The Boston Red Sox have designated reliever Ryan Brasier for assignment. This news came out late last night after Brasier pitched 2.1 innings and gave up four hits with three earned runs.
In all realism, this move took a lot longer than many fans expected it to, as Brasier has struggled mightily for the past two seasons. However, it does line up with the return of Joely Rodriguez, who is expected to be activated 'in upcoming days'.
Brasier was having one of his worst seasons in the major leagues this year, posting a whopping 7.29 ERA through 21 innings pitched, with nine walks allowed to 18 strikeouts, and only having one save in 20 appearances. As for last year, he registered a 5.78 ERA through 62.1 innings pitched, with 13 walks to 64 strikeouts, and only one save in 68 appearences.
Another piece worth noting is that Brasier was one of three remaining members of the 2018 World Series roster, leaving only Chris Sale and Rafael Devers left. For those who do not remember, Brasier was actually relatively effective in those playoffs. He only allowed one earned run in 8.2 innings pitched (1.04 ERA), with five walks to seven strikeouts.
MassLive spoke with Brasier after the DFA, and his initial reaction was:
"Honestly, a new start might not be bad, Obviously getting to play at Fenway every day is a dream come true. Two parks you want to play at growing up are Yankee Stadium and Fenway. And I got to do both a lot. So grateful. It sucks obviously but new start. This is what it is. I get it. It’s a business. And luck aside, I’ve gotta still have results to be at this level. And it just didn’t work out.”"Ryan Brasier via MassLive
Giving the reigns over to another reliever should benefit the Sox in the long run. Joely Rodriguez coming back this early on is a positive sign, as it gives Boston someone to be hopeful about. Last season, Joely had a 4.47 ERA through 55 innings pitched, with 26 walks to 57 strikeouts. He also only allowed three home runs in that span, which comparatively, Ryan Brasier had already allowed two this season in less than half the playing time.
We will see if Brasier ends up with another team in the coming days, but for now, he remains available. This should hopefully allow the Sox to use the bullpen more often, and more importantly, give Kenley Jansen and Josh Winckowski some resting time when needed.