In 2004, still playing with the BayBears, Brad fared much better. For the first time in his career he was moved into the bullpen on a full-time basis as a closer. Brad instantly succeeded in his new role with a 2-1 record, a 1.57 ERA, and 68 strikeouts. Near the end of the season, he was called up to the AAA Portland Beavers, where he played 4 games, recording a stellar 0.93 ERA in 9.2 innings pitched. He led San Diego's minor league organization in saves with 34 in .