Craig Kimbrel Returns to the Atlanta Braves on a Minor League Deal
In a surprising but sentimental move, the Atlanta Braves have signed veteran closer Craig Kimbrel to a minor league contract. The deal is reportedly worth $2 million if Kimbrel earns a spot on the major league roster. This signing marks a homecoming for the nine-time All-Star, who began his illustrious career with the Braves in 2010.
A Storied Career Comes Full Circle
Kimbrel, now 36, was originally drafted by the Braves in the third round of the 2008 MLB Draft. He quickly made an impact in the big leagues, winning the National League Rookie of the Year award in 2011 and establishing himself as one of baseball’s most dominant closers. Over his first five seasons with Atlanta, Kimbrel amassed 186 saves with a 1.43 ERA, cementing his legacy as one of the best relievers in franchise history.
After leaving Atlanta in 2015, Kimbrel played for several teams, including the San Diego Padres, Boston Red Sox, Chicago Cubs, and most recently, the Baltimore Orioles. Despite his age, he remains one of the all-time great closers, ranking fifth in MLB history with 440 career saves.
Recent Struggles and the Road Ahead
Kimbrel’s most recent stint with the Orioles did not go as planned. He struggled in 2024, posting a 5.33 ERA with six blown saves in 29 opportunities before being released in September. His command issues and declining velocity raised concerns about his long-term effectiveness. However, the Braves see potential value in bringing back their former star, hoping he can provide veteran depth to their bullpen.
Kimbrel will begin the season at Atlanta’s spring training facility before reporting to Triple-A Gwinnett. The Braves’ plan is to evaluate his performance at the minor league level before considering a promotion to the major league roster. If he can regain his form, Kimbrel could serve as a reliable late-inning option alongside closer Raisel Iglesias, who recorded 34 saves in 38 chances last season with a stellar 1.95 ERA.
What This Means for the Braves
Atlanta enters the 2025 season as one of the top contenders in the National League, boasting a strong bullpen and a deep roster. Bringing Kimbrel back is a low-risk move that could yield high rewards. His veteran presence and playoff experience could be invaluable in high-leverage situations later in the season.
Fans in Atlanta will undoubtedly welcome Kimbrel’s return. His signature pre-pitch stance and fiery demeanor made him a fan favorite during his first tenure with the team. While it remains to be seen if he can recapture his past dominance, the move represents a feel-good reunion between a franchise legend and the club where it all started.
For Kimbrel, this may be one of his final opportunities to prove he still belongs in the majors. If he can find consistency in Triple-A and demonstrate he has something left in the tank, Braves fans may once again see him closing out games at Truist Park, just as he did more than a decade ago.