Braves call up franchise saves leader Craig Kimbrel a day after blowing a big lead
Context:
The Atlanta Braves have recalled franchise saves leader Craig Kimbrel from the minors following a significant ninth-inning collapse in their recent game against Arizona, marking their worst blown lead in over 50 years. Kimbrel, who was the league's saves leader during his initial tenure with the Braves, returns to the team after a stint with several other MLB teams, including a recent season with Baltimore. The Braves also made roster adjustments by placing Daysbel Hernández on the injured list and trading Scott Blewett to Baltimore. Kimbrel, eager to contribute and don the Braves' jersey again, is set to play at the same stadium where he began his rise to prominence during the 2010 playoffs. His return is highly anticipated by both him and the team's management, who hope his presence will stabilize their bullpen and help secure victories.
Dive Deeper:
Craig Kimbrel, renowned for his impressive save record with the Atlanta Braves from 2011 to 2014, is returning to the team after their bullpen suffered a historic ninth-inning collapse against Arizona, losing a 10-4 lead and ultimately the game 11-10.
Having been traded from the Braves before the 2015 season, Kimbrel has played for various MLB teams, achieving a total of 440 saves and nine All-Star selections, highlighting his consistent performance and experience as a closer.
In preparation for his return, Kimbrel signed a minor league deal with the Braves in March and showed promising results in the minors, with a 3.00 ERA and 23 strikeouts over 18 innings, which led to his call-up.
The Braves made additional roster changes by placing pitcher Daysbel Hernández on the injured list due to forearm inflammation and trading Scott Blewett to the Orioles to clear space for Kimbrel's return.
Kimbrel's comeback is particularly sentimental as he returns to the same stadium where he first made a significant impact in the 2010 playoffs, stepping up after Billy Wagner's injury, which marked the beginning of his successful career as a closer.
Manager Brian Snitker, who witnessed Kimbrel's early career, expressed confidence in Kimbrel's ability to contribute to the team, emphasizing the hard work Kimbrel has put into returning to form after battling back issues last season.
In addition to the Braves' moves, the Orioles have reinstated outfielder Ramón Laureano from the injured list and designated Jordyn Adams for assignment, reflecting their ongoing roster management alongside acquiring Blewett.