WATCH: Ryan Brasier's introductory press conference |
New Chicago Cubs reliever Ryan Brasier addressed the media Wednesday night, sharing details behind his trade to the Cubs, his bullpen pitch mix, and his impressions of the team from facing them as an opponent.
Watch the full interview below:
Video summary/cliff-notes:
(00:00) Ryan Brasier explains that he was aware the team was shopping him before he was designated for assignment (DFA). He cleared waivers and later learned he was traded to the Cubs, expressing excitement about playing at Wrigley Field.
(00:32) When asked about his best form out of the bullpen, Brasier highlights his fastball and slider as his key pitches, with the cutter being a complementary pitch.
(01:05) Reflecting on being DFA'd, Brasier admits it was a "gut punch" and nerve-wracking due to uncertainty but is ultimately happy to land in Chicago.
(01:39) He shares his impressions of the Cubs, emphasizing the historic significance of Wrigley Field and his excitement about the team's offseason additions.
(02:12) Brasier reveals that he has only played at Wrigley twice in his career but always looked forward to the experience and is eager to join the Cubs' roster.
(02:43) Discussing his cutter, he explains how adding a third pitch helped him become more effective, particularly against left-handed hitters, during his strong second half in 2023 with the Dodgers.
(03:15) When asked about Seiya Suzuki, he recalls Suzuki’s standout performance in Japan and how the Red Sox inquired about him before he joined the Cubs, describing him as a talented player and a good teammate.
(03:54) Brasier shares that his offseason focus has been on regaining the effectiveness of his cutter, throwing multiple bullpen sessions to refine his cutter-fastball combination.
