Atlanta Braves Rock MLB by Designating Craig Kimbrel for Assignment—Is This the End for a Hall of Fame Reliever?
Atlanta Braves DFA nine-time All-Star Craig Kimbrel after just one 2025 appearance. What’s next for the MLB saves legend?
- Craig Kimbrel: 440 career saves, 5th all-time in MLB history
- ERA: 2.59 across 16 seasons, 838 games, 8 teams
- Recent Call-up: Rejoined Braves from Triple-A in June 2025
- Braves’ Move: Recalled Austin Cox, claimed Jose Ruiz off waivers
Craig Kimbrel, one of Major League Baseball’s most dominant closers, now faces an uncertain future. The Atlanta Braves designated the 37-year-old for assignment just a day after bringing him back to their bullpen in a move that blindsided fans and left baseball experts buzzing.
Kimbrel, renowned for his fiery fastball and intimidating mound presence, pitched a scoreless inning on his return. Despite showing glimpses of his trademark intensity—striking out one and walking another—Atlanta swiftly made the hard call as the team shuffles its bullpen ahead of the summer push.
Q: Why Did the Braves DFA a Nine-Time All-Star?
The Braves’ decision to let go of Craig Kimbrel has raised eyebrows across the MLB community. Kimbrel, a franchise legend, had just rejoined the team from Triple-A Gwinnett after signing a minor league deal in March 2025.
Despite his decorated resume—leading the National League in saves from 2011 to 2014—Kimbrel’s stint this season was brief. Atlanta is reportedly seeking more consistency in relief pitching and making room for younger arms, like left-hander Austin Cox.
Who Else Is Involved in the Braves’ Roster Shake-Up?
To fill the void, Atlanta recalled 28-year-old Austin Cox, who last played for the Kansas City Royals. The Braves didn’t stop there—they also claimed right-hander Jose Ruiz off waivers from the Philadelphia Phillies. Ruiz struggled in 2025, posting an 8.16 ERA in just over 14 innings, but brings fresh upside for the Braves’ evolving bullpen.
How Does Kimbrel Stack Up Against All-Time Greats?
With 440 career saves, Kimbrel stands fifth all-time, rounding out an elite group of relievers. Over 16 Major League seasons with eight different teams—including the Red Sox, Cubs, and Dodgers—Kimbrel built a reputation as one of baseball’s fiercest closers. His career 2.59 ERA underscores his legacy, with few other relievers even approaching such dominance.
What’s Next for Craig Kimbrel?
Baseball insiders now wonder if another run is in the cards for the veteran, or if this marks the end of a storied career. Teams seeking bullpen help could consider Kimbrel’s proven track record, especially as the playoff race heats up in 2025.
How Could the Braves’ Bullpen Shakeup Impact Their Season?
With fresh arms and big changes, Atlanta continues to signal its World Series ambitions. The mix of young talent and veteran experience could prove decisive as the regular season unfolds.
Don’t miss the latest trades, roster moves, and MLB drama! Save this article, follow team news, and keep your eye on the next chapter for Craig Kimbrel.
- ✔️ Monitor waiver wire news for Kimbrel updates
- ✔️ Track Braves bullpen performance in June and July
- ✔️ Follow official MLB.com sources for breaking news
