ATLANTA — The Braves’ resolution to say no Tyler Kinley’s $5.5 million possibility in November proved to be a sound monetary resolution.
Kinley reunited with the Braves on Saturday when he agreed to a one-year, $4.25 million deal. The suitable-handed reliever will draw a $3 million wage in 2026; his $5.5 million possibility for 2027 features a $1.25 million buyout.
The Braves raised some eyebrows once they opted to say no Kinley’s possibility even supposing he was one in all their prime relievers after being acquired from the Rockies in late July. In addition they declined Pierce Johnson’s $7 million possibility in November.
A number of the reallocated {dollars} helped the staff strengthen its bullpen by signing two confirmed closers, Raisel Iglesias and Robert Suarez, this winter. However the worth of the monetary resolution has now elevated with Kinley’s resolution to return at a lowered charge.
Kinley grew to become the newest pitcher to expertise success after leaving the difficult surroundings of Coors Subject.
Although the Braves seemed like apparent sellers, they acquired the 34-year-old Kinley from Colorado on the 2025 Commerce Deadline. He recorded a 5.66 ERA in 49 appearances for the Rockies previous to the commerce, and a 0.72 ERA (with a 2.74 FIP) over the 24 appearances he made for Atlanta.
Iglesias and Suarez will probably be Atlanta’s prime two choices out of the bullpen. If Kinley extends final 12 months’s late-season success, he and left-hander Dylan Lee might function the highest two setup choices. The unpredictable Daysbel Hernández might additional strengthen the again finish of the bullpen if he solves his command points.
