The 101-win Atlanta Braves took a huge hit on Wednesday when All-Star closer Kenley Jansen signed a two-year, $32 million contract with the Boston Red Sox.
Fortunately, the Braves do have a decent amount of depth in their bullpen and can move Raisel Iglesias to the closer’s role.
But that doesn’t mean that the Braves aren’t still looking to add to their bullpen.
Today, Atlanta completed a trade with the Detroit Tigers to strengthen their relief corps, acquiring right-hander Joe Jimenez.
In exchange, the Braves sent outfielder Justyn-Henry Malloy and left-hander Jake Higginbotham back to the Tigers.
Ken Rosental of The Athletic retweeted the Braves press release.
Braves keep bullpen strong after losing Jansen to Red Sox. Jiménez likely will set up for Iglesias, who takes over as the closer. Braves also have McHugh and Yates from the right side, Minter and Lee from the left. https://t.co/gFnEC1HAHl
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) December 8, 2022
Braves Add To The Bullpen
Jimenez went 3-2 in 62 appearances with the Tigers in 2022 and posted a 3.49 ERA.
With this trade, the Braves once again have two strong right-handers at the back end of their bullpen.
They also have two more solid righties in veterans Kirby Yates and Collin McHugh.
Nick Anderson was also signed after being let go by the Tampa Bay Rays
From the left side, the Braves boast A.J. Minter and Dylan Lee.
Unfortunately, they are going to be without Tyler Matzek for some time, who was a key piece of their bullpen during their run to the World Series in 2021.
Still, the Braves have a very deep and balanced bullpen that should remain among the best in the league in 2023.
The Braves have won five consecutive NL East titles, barely edging out the New York Mets this season.
With a deep and talented roster, Atlanta will look to extend their streak of NL East titles.
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