The Atlanta Braves parting ways with Aaron Bummer didn't come as a surprise after the reliever struggled to the tune of a 7.63 ERA. Even when Atlanta offered Bummer what were supposed to be favorable matchups, the lefty faltered and wasn't able to deliver, leading to the team's unavoidable decision to release the veteran. Still, it seems the Chicago Cubs see potential value in Bummer as a project player, signing the southpaw to a minor league deal.
Atlanta remains on the hook for the rest of Bummer's 2026 contract, but can't help but hope the left-hander is able to turn things around. While the frustration with Bummer's performance was obvious, there is no ill-will towards a player who offered stretches of productivity out of the Atlanta bullpen.
Over the last three years, Bummer appeared in 117 games, and the first two seasons was a viable early-inning and matchup option. Things ended in an undeniably frustrating fashion, but there is every reason to want the southpaw to find a way to right the ship and put together a run that gives him a chance at making Chicago's roster.
For the Cubs, this is a clear desperation move as the team currently has a winning record but sits in the bottom of their division. A big piece of this is an unreliable bullpen that Bummer becomes a wildcard option to contribute to.
Former Braves Reliever Aaron Bummer Finds Surprise Landing Spot with Chicago Cubs
It wouldn't be a surprise to see Bummer simply needed a change of scenery and is able to turn things around and contribute from the back of Chicago's pen. The stuff and velocity are clearly there for the left-hander, with the missing piece always being consistent execution. Perhaps the move is what is needed for Bummer to regain a bit of confidence and reset his career.
The Braves turned up the pressure on Bummer due to the fact that the franchise has a wealth of options and turned up the standards of production. Even last year's lower standards couldn't have ignored Bummer's struggles and inability to contribute.
It made sense for Atlanta to turn the page and give Bummer the opportunity to benefit from a change of scenery. Signing a minor league deal is telling with a team of Chicago's standing is telling that there were limited options on the market, and one would assume the door was closed to a potential reunion with the Braves. No question, the Braves made the right decision and can only hope Bummer finds a way to put his career back on track.
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