There is no denying that former Atlanta Braves closer Craig Kimbrel is a legend; however, Father Time is undefeated and is currently beating the aging reliever. After Kimbrel's exit from Atlanta a season ago, the veteran landed with the Houston Astros and offered productive innings but showed clear signs that age was still catching up. This led to a minor league deal with the New York Mets, who gave Kimbrel an opportunity this season based on a complete lack of clear options.
Kimbrel has given up 10 earned runs in 14 games pitched to the tune of a 6.00 ERA, pushing the Mets to part ways with the once-reliable closer. Now, the former Brave is going to have to choose whether it is time to hang it up or accept a minor league role. There isn't a team that is going to waste a roster spot without Kimbrel putting together a string of productive minor league innings.
This makes it clear that there is a very real chance we've watched Kimbrel take the mound for the last time at the big league level. The former Atlanta stalwart ranks fifth in MLB history in saves, trailing only Mariano Rivera, Trevor Hoffman, Kenley Jansen, and Lee Smith. It is an accomplishment to speak to the longevity and dominance of the closer for the bulk of his career.
Former Braves Closer Craig Kimbrel Facing Difficult Decision After Career Setback
In truth, the most likely path is opting to retire and walk away, knowing your chances of making a roster the rest of the season are incredibly slim. Kimbrel's once dominating presence on the mound is gone with each outing, making it clear the veteran is a ghost of this player. While Atlanta handled Kimbrel's exit horribly, it is clear the franchise saw the writing on the wall.
Kimbrel needs to walk away and begin his wait for what will be a clear Hall of Fame case the moment the right-hander is able to be elected. For the Braves, it is sad to see Kimbrel's career end in this fashion and end pitching with the Mets after already spending time with the Philadelphia Phillies.
Still, nothing will wipe away Kimbrel's accomplishments with Atlanta or the memory of the electricity in the air when he came in to close out a game. This version of Kimbrel is the one Braves fans will remember and appreciate long after the struggling veteran hands up his cleats.
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