Atlanta Braves fans are all too familiar with the greatness that exuded from former closer Craig Kimbrel. His time in Atlanta was incredible, but sadly came to an end after just five seasons. The righty was traded to the Padres just before the 2015 season began.
Atlanta was in rebuild mode, and it makes sense in hindsight why they moved him. However, it didn't make it any less difficult for Braves fans to experience. Losing arguably the best modern closer in baseball, in his prime, would be a hard pill for any organization to swallow.
In the end, Kimbrel only appeared in 12 total big league innings last year between Atlanta and Houston. It looked like Kimbrel's career could be over, but that wasn't the case. Unfortunately, the former Brave signed with one of the worst teams possible ahead of the 2026 season. MLB insider Jon Heyman announced that the New York Mets agreed to terms with Kimbrel on a minor league deal. This contract also guarantees an invite to spring training.
Kimbrel credentials: 440 saves, .170 BAA, 14K/9IP, 2.58 ERA, 9 All-Star seasons https://t.co/yr6eHIzkHz
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) January 25, 2026
Craig Kimbrel signs with Mets after disappointing end to his time in Atlanta
Kimbrel has fallen off in the late stages of his career. Age, a decreased fastball velocity, and loss of control will do that. The Braves reunited with the right-hander briefly in 2025, but he was cut loose after just one MLB appearance. His fans and teammates were not very fond of the choice to cut Kimbrel, as he only got one opportunity, and it was a scoreless frame. It felt like they could have given him a little more time before making that decision.
Despite the lack of production from Kimbrel in recent years, it makes sense why the Mets would want to take a chance. He has 440 career saves with a 2.58 ERA, 346 walks, and 1,282 strikeouts.
Kimbrel does still carry impressive strikeout and whiff rates in limited action last season. Unfortunately, his walk and chase rates were very disappointing. Teams absolutely crushed his knuckle curve with a .429 batting average. He'll need to improve that pitch if he hopes to stick with the Mets this season.
It's unfortunate to see Kimbrel land with the Mets. He's already had a stint with the Phillies, and it ended up being one of his best seasons in recent years. Hopefully, he doesn't end up repeating that while tormenting the Braves all year long.