The Atlanta Braves’ handling of Craig Kimbrel was completely baffling. The Braves in March signed Kimbrel to a minor-league deal. He pitched in three games for Double-A Columbus and was nearly flawless with no hits and only one walk allowed over 3.

Kimbrel pitched the first five seasons of his career with the Braves, collecting a 1.43 ERA and 186 saves in 294 appearances. He won the 2011 National League Rookie of the Year award and made four All-Star teams during his stint with Atlanta.

Kimbrel spent the 2024 season with the Orioles after signing a one-year, $13 million deal, going 7-5 with a 5.33 ERA and 23 saves as the replacement for injured closer Félix Bautista before being cut in September.