Texas Rangers Release Veteran Reliever Ryan Brasier

The Texas Rangers have parted ways with veteran reliever Ryan Brasier. They released him from his minor league contract while he was in camp in Surprise, Arizona.

The move, announced on Saturday, adds another wrinkle to Texas’ spring planning. The club is tightening its bullpen options and evaluating arms ahead of the season.

Brasier’s experience in high-leverage moments and his lengthy major-league track record were valued. Still, the Rangers decided to go in another direction as spring training unfolds.

Overview of the Release

The decision comes as the Rangers evaluate their pitching staff during spring camp. Brasier, 38, had been in camp with Texas in Surprise and brought a veteran presence who might’ve contributed depth in relief.

His last major-league season was with the Chicago Cubs. Over his career, he’s bounced around multiple organizations, making him a notable depth piece in any contending bullpen competition.

Details of the Move

Texas released Brasier from his minor league pact, so he’s free to look for opportunities with other clubs this spring. The timing shows how rosters are getting trimmed as the Rangers finalize their pitching staff for the regular season.

Brasier wasn’t on the 40-man roster, but his big-league experience and postseason background made him an asset in previous stops. Now, the move opens up a bullpen slot for others during spring workouts.

Impact on Rangers’ Spring Training and Bullpen

The Rangers entered spring training planning to evaluate a range of bullpen arms. Losing Brasier means one less veteran in the mix as Texas tries to find reliable late-inning depth.

It also signals that the organization might be leaning toward younger arms or other veterans who fit better in late-inning roles for a playoff push.

Rangers’ Roster Decisions

Texas has been balancing risk and upside this spring, weighing command, velocity, and adaptability in different relievers. Brasier’s release fits a broader strategy of shaping the bullpen around projected needs—especially late-inning relievers and setup guys.

The front office seems to be prioritizing a blend of affordable depth and upside, while still leaving room for internal progress among rotation and relief candidates.

Brasier’s MLB Journey

Looking at Brasier’s career arc helps explain his value. A right-hander known for late-inning reliability, he’s logged nine seasons in the majors with a mix of strike-throwing and durability.

He’s played for several prominent clubs, filling different roles and adapting to various environments.

• Years and teams: Angels (2013), Boston Red Sox (2018–23), Los Angeles Dodgers (2023–24), Chicago Cubs (2025).
• Career record and ERA: 10-9 record with a 3.90 ERA and 10 saves.
• Playoff experience: Stepped into high-leverage spots in meaningful late-inning situations during his MLB tenure.

Brasier’s 2024-25 seasons show a gradual dip in usage and effectiveness. It’s a reminder that durability for veterans shifts with age and performance.

Even so, his playoff pedigree and veteran status could appeal to teams looking for a depth reliever who can slot into various bullpen roles on a short-term deal.

What’s Next for Brasier

Now that the Rangers have moved on, Brasier is free to explore other opportunities this spring. At 38, his mindset and postseason experience still have value in the right situation.

Where he lands next—and how quickly he can re-establish himself as a dependable bullpen option—remains to be seen. There’s probably a club out there willing to give him a look if the fit’s right.

Opportunities Ahead for a 38-Year-Old Reliever

In today’s MLB, a right-hander with Brasier’s mix of experience can still find a spot on a team that values veteran leadership and adaptability. The spring window is crucial—he needs to show he’s healthy, has command, and can be reliable.

If he pulls that off, there’s a real shot he could contribute meaningful innings out of a bullpen. For Rangers fans, this move hints at a continued push to streamline the bullpen, leaving space for younger arms to step up during a pretty important spring training.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Rangers release veteran reliever Ryan Brasier