When the Atlanta Braves first reunited with former closer Craig Kimbrel, it was a fun story that was believed to provide needed depth. The Braves opted to ease the veteran into the season, not being able to put the reliever through spring training. Kimbrel ramped up throwing and debuted with Atlanta's Double-A affiliate in an effort to get needed reps. The veteran was dominant and quickly moved up to the Gwinnett Stripers as his comeback path continued.
Kimbrel has been solid for Gwinnett, proving last year's struggles appear to be in the rearview. As the Braves continue to attempt to fight their way back to .500, there is no reason Kimbrel shouldn't already be on the active roster. Perhaps if Atlanta had an overwhelming list of options, the team could rationalize holding Kimbrel back a bit longer. However, taking a look at the team's current depth chart, there are easily 3-4 names that could be moved to make room for Kimbrel.
Braves Must Promote Former Closer Craig Kimbrel to Active Roster
Despite being only thirty-six, Kimbrel was forced to take a minor league deal after collapsing in the second half of the season with Baltimore. In the first half of the season, Kimbrel was an invaluable piece of the Baltimore pen that was consistently put in high-leverage situations. Rewinding back to the 2023 season, this was consistently the case for the veteran as well.
Everything about Kimbrel's struggles to end the season was a clear outlier. Add in the fact that the Braves have a handful of relievers with far less upside on the current roster, and the promotion is overdue. While this isn't suggesting Kimbrel will turn back the clock to what he once was, it isn't a far-fetched take to believe he could quickly become one of the most important arms in Atlanta's pen.
It would be surprising if the Braves don't make the most over the next few games as they continue to attempt to find bullpen depth. Kimbrel may not be the dominating arm he was when the closer first made his debut with the Braves. However, there is still immense value in adding the experienced veteran to a pen that simply has few proven options.