It was only a matter of time, but Atlanta Braves fans got the news we've all been waiting for this morning. Jesse Chavez has returned to the Braves organization. Yes, the 41 year-old reliever signed a minor league deal with Atlanta this morning in a move that truly felt inevitable.
Chavez has was released by the Texas Rangers a few days ago, and since every Braves' fan around the world had a feeling he would find his way back before it was all said and done. And now Chavez has the chance (albeit a small one) to make one more Opening Day roster.
The 17 year veteran had the appearance of a man who was ready to retire after his last outing in San Diego in 2024. However, that itch to pitch came back and Chavez decided to give it another go in 2025.
The inevitable has happened: #Braves signed Jesse Chavez to a minor league deal, after the 41-year-old was released by the Texas Rangers a couple of days ago.
— David O'Brien (@DOBrienATL) March 23, 2025
Jesse Chavez returns to Braves on minor league deal
The Atlanta Braves bullpen is certainly the biggest area where jobs are to be won throughout the early portion of the season. That's why Alex Anthopoulos has brought in a handful of NRI veterans, and familiar faces with the hopes someone still has what it takes to get Major League hitters out.
Chavez became available after he struggled in his seven appearances for the Rangers this spring. His 9.45 ERA, four walks, and 2.10 WHIP made it clear he wouldn't make the Rangers Opening Day roster. As a result Chavez circles back to Atlanta, where he has been most effective over the latter portion of his long career.
Last season Chavez pitched 63.1 innings of mostly mop-up duty with the Braves. However, he was effective in that role posting a 3.13 ERA and 4.43 FIP. Nowadays he's barely cracking 90 mph with his heater, but so long as he throws strikes there could still be a role for Chavez similar to the one he filled last season. In addition we know the type of joy and comradery he brings to the Braves clubhouse.
As we know, the Braves have a brutal schedule to open the season, playing out on the west coast without many off days early on. It's likely Atlanta will need their original 26-man roster plus more to navigate the month of April. Should they dip into their depth early on, Chavez is a likely call-up for the big league club.