Craig Kimbrel’s brief return to the Atlanta Braves lasted just one game before the team designated the veteran reliever for assignment. The 37-year-old, who is the Braves’ all-time saves leader with 186 saves during his first stint from 2010 to 2014, pitched a scoreless seventh inning Friday against the San Francisco Giants but was removed from the roster the very next day.
Kimbrel was called up from Triple-A Gwinnett after signing a minor league deal in March, aiming to revive his career following a challenging 2024 season with the Orioles. In his lone appearance back with Atlanta, he allowed a leadoff single but escaped further damage by picking off a runner and striking out a batter, though his fastball velocity averaged just 91.5 mph—well below his prime.
The Braves made the roster move to recall left-hander Austin Cox from Triple-A, signaling a shift toward younger arms as the team struggles through a disappointing 27-35 start to the season. Despite Kimbrel’s historic impact on the franchise and his nine All-Star selections, the decision reflects the reality of his diminished effectiveness in recent years.
As the Braves continue to navigate a tough stretch in the National League East, the future for Kimbrel remains uncertain, but his legacy as one of the game’s premier closers, especially in Atlanta, remains intact. Meanwhile, rookie Scott Blewett, a right-handed pitcher, continues to develop in the Braves’ system, representing part of the team’s ongoing efforts to rebuild its bullpen depth.
