Since May 4th, Atlanta Braves closer Raisel Iglesias has only worked two games without giving up a hit and only three while surrendering at least one earned run. This alone tells you exactly how frustrating things have been for the once-reliable reliever. Even in Thursday's scoreless appearance, the ball was being consistently squared up by the Nationals. It took two great plays from Michael Harris to bail Iglesias out and force extra innings. This is just the latest example of a closer who cannot be trusted.
With Iglesias in the final year of his deal, it is fair to wonder if the Braves might choose to pivot in a different direction. This is far past simply a bad month or a rough outing or two. Iglesias is sporting a 5.59 ERA and is being hit consistently hard. It is past time the Braves begin to consider the need for a change at the position.
Raisel Iglesias is Holding Onto His Job Based Only on Atlanta's Underwhelming Options
This is where things grow a bit sticky when looking at current replacements within the organization. Demoting Iglesias into a setup or middle innings role is what should happen. The lack of reliability demands a demotion that Atlanta simply hasn't put itself in a position to give. Looking at the current bullpen, it seems Pierce Johnson might be the best fit for the role among current relievers. While the veteran has had a bad outing or two, he has been among the team's most consistent producers.
Alternatively, the Braves could promote Craig Kimbrel from Gwinnett and hope the veteran can turn back the clock. Neither of these options are perfect fits, but they are likely going to offer better results than anything Iglesias is currently giving the team.
Still, Iglesias has the highest ceiling of any reliever on the current roster. Demoting the veteran isn't shutting the door on reclaiming the role. Rather, it is dealing with the stark reality of where Atlanta is sitting in the current standings and understanding the need to do everything possible to improve.
One speculated trade option is current Angel and former Brave Kenley Jansen. The Braves have a consistent trading relationship with Los Angeles and could look to utilize this to bring in bullpen reinforcements. No matter the path the team chooses, it is clear Iglesias cannot be trusted, and the team must begin to make decisions based on this fact. Barring a surprise turnaround, the current strategy is going to continue to cost Atlanta valuable wins the team cannot afford to fumble away.