Craig Kimbrel, a decorated veteran pitcher, has signed a minor league contract with the Atlanta Braves, the team where he kicked off his illustrious career in 2010. This news, reported by multiple sources including ESPN, comes with a $2 million price tag if Kimbrel successfully makes the Braves' major league roster.
Turning 37 in May, Kimbrel will look to leverage this opportunity to revive his career following a turbulent last season with the Baltimore Orioles. After being designated for assignment on September 24, 2024, due to a disappointing performance that saw him post a 5.33 ERA and blow six saves, Kimbrel has been a free agent waiting for his chance to return to the field.
During his inaugural run with the Braves, Kimbrel demonstrated his talent as a premier closer. He shattered franchise records, notably racking up 186 saves from 2010 to 2014. He was named the National League Rookie of the Year in 2011 after leading the league with 46 saves and continued to impress, making All-Star appearances each year for four consecutive seasons thereafter.
While Kimbrel's recent stats certainly raise concerns, his earlier successes speak to the potential he still possesses. Despite struggles in his final appearances for the Orioles, he managed to fan 72 batters over 52 1/3 innings, maintaining an average strikeout rate of 10.04 strikeouts per nine innings. However, the final stretch of his 2024 season was alarming, as he faced a dismal 13.94 ERA in his last 11 outings, highlighting the inconsistent performances that ultimately led to his release.
As Kimbrel joins the Braves, the team's bullpen boasts a mix of established players. Currently, Raisel Iglesias is the closer, with Pierce Johnson, along with left-handers Dylan Lee and Aaron Bummer, serving as key components. Kimbrel’s signing adds depth and experience to an already solid lineup, but he will need to ramp up his performance before stepping into a pivotal bullpen role. There is potential for him to fill holes and contribute significantly should he regain form.
Throughout his career, Kimbrel has saved a remarkable 440 games, placing him fifth on MLB's all-time saves leaderboard. His accolades include nine All-Star selections, a pair of Reliever of the Year awards, and being lauded for having one of the fastest careers to reach 300 saves in Major League history. Close behind him for saves among active players is Kenley Jansen, currently sitting at 447 career saves.
Notably, Kimbrel’s return also rekindles memories of his unique pre-pitch routine, which has become iconic in the sport. His ability to draw batters in with his controlled approach remains part of what makes him a fearsome presence on the mound. His fastball averaged 93.9 mph last season, a rate that qualifies as average among pitchers today, yet his above-average swing-and-miss rate indicates he still possesses the talent essential for a relief pitcher.
The Braves commenced their spring training with optimism for the 2025 season, opening on March 27 against the San Diego Padres. With a roster bolstered by Kimbrel’s addition, there remains excitement and anticipation about what he could bring. Should he navigate this pivotal phase effectively while training at the Triple-A Gwinnett affiliate, Kimbrel could emulate the success he once thrived on as the Braves look to bolster their bullpen.
In summation, Craig Kimbrel's signing represents not merely a return but a potential resurgence of a career that began with the Braves. Both the team and fans remain hopeful that this contract is the first step toward a bright and impactful season for Kimbrel as he attempts to re-establish himself in baseball following a less-than-stellar sandwich last year.
