Braves' Craig Kimbrel: Headed to Atlanta on MiLB deal
Rotowire
Kimbrel signed a minor-league contract with Atlanta on Tuesday, Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic reports.
Kimbrel showed flashes of his old self with the Orioles last year, but inconsistency led him to finish the season with a 5.33 ERA and 1.36 WHIP across 52.1 innings while converting 23 of his 29 save opportunities. Now entering his age-37 season, the right-hander will get another chance to prove he can still perform at a high level with the organization that drafted him back in 2008. Even if Kimbrel makes his way back into the majors, fantasy managers shouldn't expect him to perform anywhere near the level he was at when he last wore an Atlanta uniform.
The Orioles released Kimbrel on Tuesday, Dan Connolly of The Athletic reports.
The 36-year-old was designated for assignment by the Orioles last week and will now officially exit the organization. Kimbrel was dominant at times this season as he racked up 23 saves in 29 opportunities, but he surrendered 23 earned runs in his last 19 appearances before Baltimore elected to move on. The right-hander finished with a 5.33 ERA, 1.36 WHIP and 73:31 K:BB across 57 frames and may now find himself at a career crossroads.
The Orioles designated Kimbrel for assignment Wednesday.
Kimbrel had an excellent first half as the Orioles closer in posting a 2.80 ERA and 53:16 K:BB over 35.1 innings while notching 23 saves. He has cratered since the All-Star break, however, turning in a 10.59 ERA, 2.18 WHIP and 15 walks in 17 frames. Kimbrel was being used in a mop-up role this month, and in his most recent appearance Tuesday, he allowed six runs while recording just two outs. The 36-year-old will eventually be released, with the Orioles on the hook for what remains of his $13 million salary in 2024, as well as a $1 million buyout of his 2025 club option.
