Scouting Report: Ryan Rolison

Summary

Ryan Rolison, a left-handed reliever for the Chicago Cubs, has emerged as a lights-out arm in the team's bullpen since being called up on April 14, 2025. The former twice-designated castoff has transformed his career through the Cubs' renowned pitching development program. In his first six relief appearances, Rolison has posted a 3.12 ERA with 10 strikeouts across 8⅔ innings pitched. He has allowed no runs in five of his six appearances and has been instrumental in the Cubs' recent walk-off victories against the Reds, striking out the side in the ninth inning and pitching scoreless innings in extra-inning situations. Rolison has earned three wins already this season despite being relatively low in the Cubs' bullpen pecking order. His success is particularly notable given his previous struggles, including a 7.02 ERA in his rookie season and subsequent designations for assignment. The Cubs' pitching lab has helped him refine his arsenal, enabling him to thrive despite averaging only 94.3 mph on his fastball and maintaining an 88.2% contact rate on swings.