Kimbrel DFA’d: Braves Release Veteran Closer
- The Atlanta Braves have designated veteran relief pitcher Craig Kimbrel for assignment, the team announced Saturday.
- Kimbrel, a nine-time All-Star closer, began his career in Atlanta in 2010.
- During his debut, Kimbrel allowed one hit, walked one batter, and recorded one strikeout, throwing 14 pitches in the Braves' eventual 5-4 extra-innings loss.
After just one appearance, the Atlanta Braves have designated Craig Kimbrel for assignment, ending his brief return to the team. This surprising move leaves fans wondering about KimbrelS next chapter and the Braves’ bullpen strategy.The nine-time All-Star closer, who signed a minor league deal in march, saw limited action before the Braves decided a change was necessary. With a stellar career including 440 saves, Kimbrel is expected to attract interest from other clubs seeking bullpen help. News Directory 3 keeps you informed. Now, what’s next for the veteran right-hander, and how will the Braves adjust their relief corps?
Braves designate Craig Kimbrel for Assignment After Single Outing
updated June 8, 2025
The Atlanta Braves have designated veteran relief pitcher Craig Kimbrel for assignment, the team announced Saturday. The move comes after Kimbrel, 37, made his season debut with the Braves on Friday, pitching a scoreless seventh inning against the san Francisco Giants.
Kimbrel, a nine-time All-Star closer, began his career in Atlanta in 2010. He had been called up from Triple-A Gwinnett before friday’s game,having signed a minor league deal with the Braves in March,hoping to bolster their bullpen and continue his storied career as a premier relief pitcher.
During his debut, Kimbrel allowed one hit, walked one batter, and recorded one strikeout, throwing 14 pitches in the Braves’ eventual 5-4 extra-innings loss. Despite the scoreless outing, the Braves opted to make a change, seeking different options to solidify their relief corps. The team is now evaluating options for their bullpen, seeking a reliable arm to close out games.
Kimbrel previously led the National League in saves for four consecutive seasons (2011-2014) while with Atlanta. His career numbers include 440 saves, ranking fifth all-time, and a 2.59 ERA across 838 games over 16 seasons with eight different teams. His experience and track record make him a valuable asset,and he is expected to draw interest from other clubs seeking bullpen help.
In corresponding moves,Atlanta recalled left-hander Austin Cox,28,from Triple-A Gwinnett. Cox last pitched in the majors in 2023 with the Kansas City Royals. The Braves also claimed right-hander Jose ruiz, 30, off waivers from the Philadelphia Phillies. Ruiz posted a 1-0 record with an 8.16 ERA in 14 1/3 innings for Philadelphia this season.
What’s next
Kimbrel’s future remains uncertain, but the veteran reliever is highly likely to find another opportunity in MLB given his track record. Other teams seeking bullpen help may express interest in acquiring him. The Braves, meanwhile, will look to Cox and Ruiz to provide stability and depth in their bullpen as they continue their season.