The earth is proving round for Craig Kimbrel. Why? Because he is set to return from where it’s all started. Kimbrel’s MLB journey began with the Braves in 2010, and after a decade, he is reportedly returning with the team this year. While it is yet to be confirmed by the Braves, rumors are rife that a minor league deal is offered to the 37-year-old veteran. However, what are the Braves expecting from the veteran reliever this time? How is Kimbrel expected to offer a breakthrough to the team?
With the Braves, Kimbrel got one last chance at redemption. The 9x All-Star witnessed his otherwise decorated career going downhill since the second half of 2023. He left the Phillies after a difficult postseason, despite having a terrific regular-season record with a respectable ERA and outstanding save opportunities. Remember his performance in the 2023 NLC Series? Kimbrel became the first pitcher from the Phillies to lose consecutive postseason games since 1993. His figures went further downhill with the Orioles in 2024; Kimbrel made 57 appearances with the Orioles, posting a 7–5 record, with a 5.33 ERA.
With that performance in the last few years, a start-over is all needed. Well, Kimbrel’s previous stint with the Braves was marked by significant honors, such as a Rookie of the Year Award. “It’s awesome for him and great for Braves fans… also, a chance for [Craig] Kimbrel to find redemption,” MLBTonight reacted on X.
“It’s awesome for him and great for Braves fans… also, a chance for [Craig] Kimbrel to find redemption.”#MLBTonight reacts to Atlanta’s all-time saves leader reportedly returning to the franchise. pic.twitter.com/72f2qiKU66
— MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) March 18, 2025
Kimbrel’s 186 saves from 2010–14 set a franchise record for the Braves. And while the 36-year-old veteran pitcher is no longer regarded as one of the most effective relievers in the game, he might play a role in this breakthrough season of the Braves. So how is the team expecting him to show up… and possibly change their fortunes?
The Atlanta Braves are targeting a breakthrough in 2025
The Atlanta Braves’ 89-game win in the previous season got away from the limelight with all the focus on the Mets and the Phillies in the NL East this offseason. This time, it is projected that the Braves will get into the playoff contention with a minimum of 95 wins! Now the addition of Jurickson Profar is surely going to get some more runs on board. Apart from Profar, a $200 million payroll in 2025 was just enough to make a bet for the 2025 postseason. And the possible addition of Kimbrel – worth 7.9 mil presently – could be a major value-add for the Braves, in the otherwise limited bullpen. How?
The Braves’ bullpen right now includes left-handers Dylan Lee, Pierce Johnson, and Raisel Iglesias. Hernández Daysbel is reportedly also coming in. So what’s left? Craig Kimbrel could be assigned as a long reliever in the final position of their bullpen. According to ESPN BET, the Braves are in the second position on the projection list with a +800 score, even ahead of the Yankees! This is attributed to their smart moves made during the offseason, especially to their offense. With Kimbrel coming back for blood, the upcoming season just becomes sweeter for the Braves.
A good season is expected from the Atlanta Braves this year, considering their recent moves. Well, the on-field performance will prove if the projections are true. Do you think the Braves are poised for a postseason run this year? Share your views below!
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