MLB Rumors: Dodgers Eye 'High-Leverage' Reliever; Brasier, Red Sox's Jansen Linked

The Los Angeles Dodgers are interested in adding a "high-leverage" reliever and have been linked to two familiar faces, according to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic.

Rosenthal reported on Monday that "the Dodgers seem more focused on adding a high-leverage reliever, perhaps Ryan Brasier as a free agent or the Red Sox's Kenley Jansen in a trade."

Brasier appeared in 39 games for Los Angeles during the 2023 season, while Jansen was a Dodger from 2010 through 2021.

The Dodgers' rumored interest in Brasier has existed for weeks, with Mike DiGiovanna of the Los Angeles Times revealing on Jan. 8 that Los Angeles remained "firmly in the mix" to re-sign the 36-year-old. The right-hander excelled in his 39 appearances, striking out 38 batters in 38.2 innings while posting a tremendous 0.70 ERA.

Los Angeles' front office could face some competition for his services, however, as the New York Post's Jon Heyman reported that the New York Yankees have talked to the reliever.

As for Jansen, he made the fourth All-Star appearance of his career in 2023 despite playing on a Red Sox team that finished with a 78-84 record. He accumulated a 3.63 ERA, racking up 52 strikeouts against 17 walks. At 36 years old, Jansen may no longer be in his prime, but he's still proved that he can be a productive bullpen arm.

Bob Nightengale of USA Today reported that Boston's front office has been telling opposing teams that the closer is available for trade.

The Dodgers have arguably been the most active team in baseball throughout the winter, signing two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani on Dec. 9. They followed it up by inking Japanese ace Yoshinobu Yamamoto to a 12-year deal worth $325 million on Dec. 27 (via Spotrac).