Rangers to sign Texas native and two-time World Series champ to thicken bullpen

Rangers to sign Texas native and two-time World Series champ Ryan Brasier

The Texas Rangers are finalizing a deal with veteran righty reliever Ryan Brasier, according to MassLive.com's Chris Cotillo. Per the Dallas Morning News' Evan Grant, it's a minor league deal with an invite to big league camp. Brasier, 38, is a Wichita Falls, Texas, native and attended college in Weatherford.

Brasier threw just 26 innings in 28 games with the Chicago Cubs last season due to suffering two groin injuries. During his limited action with Chicago, the Texas native posted a 4.50 ERA with 20 strikeouts and five walks. While his results weren't amazing, his periphials suggest he was a bit unlucky. He had a 30.5% chase rate, 6.3% barrel rate and 3.17 FIP to go along with his elite 4.8% walk rate.

Brasier made his MLB debut with the Los Angeles Angels in 2013 and didn't return to the majors until 2018 with the Boston Red Sox due to injuries and spending time in Japan. He played a vital role in helping Boston win the 2018 World Series, posting a 1.60 ERA over 33 2/3 regular-season innings and allowing just one run in 8 2/3 innings during the postseason. He stayed with the Red Sox organization until a rough start to the 2023 season led to him being released in late May 2013. He then signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers, where the righty sported an outstanding 1.89 ERA in 66 2/3 innings in 2023 and 2024. He won his second World Series ring with Los Angeles during his final season with the club.

Ryan Brasier signing continues Rangers' bullpen rebuild

Texas has had to make several moves to rebuild its bullpen after losing Hoby Milner, Phil Maton, Shawn Armstrong and Jacob Webb to free agency. Danny Coulombe also became a free agent at the conclusion of last season, but the lefty has yet to find a new team, meaning the Rangers could still bring him back.

Along with signing several relievers, including Josh Sborz, to minor league deals, the Rangers have signed bullpen arms Alexis Díaz, Tyler Alexander, Jakob Junis and Chris Martin to MLB deals. They also acquired Carter Baumler via a trade during the Rule 5 Draft.

The Rangers' bullpen was solid last season, posting a 3.62 ERA. Granted, it will look almost completely different next season, but Texas is making the right moves to rebuild its depleted 'pen.

The main issue the Rangers' bullpen had last season was finishing games strong. Texas converted just 37 of 66 save opportunities. For now, there's no clear favorite to run away with the closer role. Brasier has only 10 career saves, but he could still end up being the Rangers' primary closer given his past success.