The much maligned Atlanta Braves bullpen got some reinforcements today, as RHP Kevin Herget was claimed off waivers from the New York Mets. Not to be confused with former Braves reliever Jimmy Herget, Kevin will serve as organizational bullpen depth as he's already been optioned to Triple-A Gwinnett.
Herget appeared in just one game for the Mets this season, back on April 29th. Herget has pitched for four different teams since his debut in 2022, and has yet to pitch in more than 14 games in any single season. For his career he owns a 4.63 ERA and 4.19 FIP in just over 44 innings pitched.
Herget features a low 90s fastball, upper 80s cutter, and sprinkles in a low 80s changeup every now and then. Thankfully, Herget does have options so he provides the front office with some flexibility for the summer months. The 34 year-old will serve as much needed upper minor league bullpen depth.
Braves bolstering bullpen depth could signal Rafael Montero's pending doom
Brian Snitker's questionable bullpen management has headlined recent frustrating Braves losses. Rafael Montero was the latest arm to falter last night, as he was once again used in high-leverage for whatever reason. With Spencer Strider's impending return, a couple of current bullpen arms could be on their way out the door within the week.
That would mean the Phillies bullpen isn't the only NL East team that could be shaken up this week. Anthopoulos will likely wait to see what starter Spencer Schwellenbach does and the bullpen arms needed today against the Red Sox before making any additional roster moves.
Because Herget was immediately optioned to Triple-A, earlier speculation about a Craig Kimbrel return to the majors makes all the more sense. Herget would take Kimbrel's spot in Triple-A when he's deemed ready, and Montero would subsequently be DFA'd be the front office.