Craig Kimbrel Re-joins Braves Organization On Minor League Agreement

Chloe Fitzgerald

4 min read

Post on May 18, 2025

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Kimbrel's Past Performance and Legacy with the Braves

Craig Kimbrel's legacy with the Atlanta Braves is one of dominance and unforgettable moments. During his initial stint with the team (primarily from 2010-2015), he cemented his place as one of baseball's elite closers, terrorizing opposing batters with his devastating arsenal of pitches. His contributions were instrumental in the team's success during those years. He consistently ranked among the league leaders in saves, boasting an impressively low ERA and earning numerous All-Star selections.

• 2010-2015: Established himself as one of baseball's elite closers, consistently racking up saves and showcasing remarkable control.
• Numerous Saves and Low ERA: His statistics during this period speak volumes; countless saves accompanied by an exceptionally low earned run average.
• All-Star Appearances: Kimbrel's talent was recognized league-wide, earning him multiple All-Star appearances.
• Significant Contributions to Team Success: Kimbrel's presence in the bullpen provided an undeniable boost to the Atlanta Braves' chances of winning.

The Terms of the Minor League Agreement

The specifics of Craig Kimbrel's minor league deal with the Braves are structured to provide both sides with flexibility and opportunity. It’s a non-guaranteed contract, meaning Kimbrel will need to earn his way onto the major league roster. This performance-based agreement features incentives tied to his success at the minor league level and subsequently in the majors. Essentially, it's a chance for Kimbrel to prove his capabilities and earn a substantial salary, while the Braves gain a low-risk opportunity to add significant talent to their bullpen.

• Non-Guaranteed Contract with Incentives: The agreement includes performance-based incentives, offering Kimbrel the chance to earn more based on his performance.
• Path to Major League Roster: Strong performance in spring training and the minor leagues is the key to securing a place on the major league roster.
• Minor League Start: It's highly likely he'll begin the season with one of the Braves' minor league affiliates.

Potential Impact on the Braves' Bullpen

The addition of Craig Kimbrel has the potential to significantly upgrade the Atlanta Braves' bullpen. While the bullpen already possesses young talent, Kimbrel's veteran presence and proven closing ability bring a crucial element of experience and stability. His addition provides bullpen depth and adds a high-leverage option that could solidify their relief pitching corps.

• Veteran Leadership: Kimbrel's experience will undoubtedly provide invaluable leadership and mentorship to the younger pitchers.
• Competition for Closing Role: He could compete for the closer's role, or fill a high-leverage setup role, adding flexibility to the management of the bullpen.
• Enhanced Bullpen Depth: Regardless of his specific role, Kimbrel's presence dramatically enhances the overall depth and reliability of the bullpen.

Fan Reaction and Media Speculation

The news of Craig Kimbrel's return has been met with overwhelmingly positive reactions from Braves fans and widespread speculation in the media. Social media platforms erupted with excitement, expressing anticipation for his potential impact. Analysts and commentators are divided on his exact role and the likelihood of a return to peak form, but the overall sentiment points to a significant boost for the Braves.

• Positive Fan Reaction: Social media platforms have seen a surge of positive comments and excitement from Braves fans.
• Media Coverage and Speculation: News outlets and analysts are offering diverse opinions on Kimbrel's potential role within the team.
• Analysts' Predictions Vary: While there's excitement, there is also a degree of uncertainty regarding his performance and role this season.

Conclusion: Craig Kimbrel's Return to the Braves: A New Chapter

Craig Kimbrel's return to the Braves organization on a minor league agreement is a captivating storyline for the 2024 season. His past success with the team, the terms of his new contract, and the potential impact on the Braves' bullpen all contribute to a compelling narrative. The significant fan excitement and media speculation further highlight the importance of this move. This minor league deal presents a low-risk, high-reward opportunity for both the veteran closer and the Atlanta Braves. Follow Craig Kimbrel's journey as he aims to reignite his career and contribute to the team's success. Stay tuned for updates on the Braves and learn more about the details of the Craig Kimbrel minor league agreement as the season unfolds!