Wondering about Craig Kimbrel’s return to the Braves? The veteran closer agreed to a minor league deal, aiming for a comeback with the team where he began his career. After a rough 2024 season, he now looks to reestablish himself in Atlanta’s bullpen.
Here’s what we know about his contract, his recent struggles, and what his return could mean for the Braves.
Craig Kimbrel returns to Braves for a year
Craig Kimbrel agreed to a minor league deal with the Atlanta Braves, according to multiple sources. If he makes the major league roster, he will earn $2 million.
The 36-year-old reliever, who set the Braves’ franchise record with 186 saves from 2010-14, aims to extend his career after a difficult 2024 season with the Baltimore Orioles. The team has not officially confirmed the agreement.
Kimbrel struggled last season, posting a 5.33 ERA in 57 appearances with Baltimore before the team designated him for assignment in September (via MLB). He has not joined a major league camp this spring and needs time to prepare before potentially joining Atlanta’s bullpen.
If added to the roster, he could fill one of the remaining bullpen spots alongside closer Raisel Iglesias, setup man Pierce Johnson, and left-handers Dylan Lee and Aaron Bummer. The Braves may also consider non-roster invitees Enyel De Los Santos and Hector Neris.
Craig Kimbrel, a nine-time All-Star, won MLB’s Reliever of the Year in both leagues—Trevor Hoffman NL Award in 2014 with Atlanta and Mariano Rivera AL Award in 2017 with Boston. He led the league in saves four times, last in 2014, and recorded a career-high 50 saves in 2013. His 440 career saves rank fifth all-time and second among active closers, behind Kenley Jansen’s 447.
Kimbrel has reached the postseason nine times with five teams and won a World Series with the Red Sox in 2018. The Braves drafted him in the third round in 2008. He remained with them until 2015, when they traded him to the Padres in a deal that secured a draft pick used to select Austin Riley.
