Reunions in baseball don't always work out. The Atlanta Braves took a chance and traded for two former Braves at this year's deadline. While one part of that deal has worked out, the other has failed to find his old magic.
Back in his first stint with the Braves (2017-2021) Luke Jackson established himself as a trustworthy MLB reliever. Over that time, Jackson threw 254 innings with a 3.93 ERA, 3.71 FIP, and accumulated 2.4 fWAR.
He was a trusted member of the "night shift" and a big part of the 2021 World Series team. However, Jackson's 2024 results haven't been the same. And given his recent run of poor performances it might be time for the Braves to move on.
YOUNG MONEYYY pic.twitter.com/1zaCovolPj
— Washington Nationals (@Nationals) August 25, 2024
The Luke Jackson experience has run it's course
Some of Jackson's underlying numbers and recent outings made him a good lottery ticket addition for Alex Anthopoulos when trading for him and Soler from the Giants. However, things have quickly gone south for Jackson, who is carrying a .325 BABIP in 2024.
After Jackson gave up the lead on Sunday afternoon his season ERA ballooned to 5.93. On top of that he carries a FIP north of 5. Jackson has a -0.3 fWAR this season, and simply put there are better options in the organization.
Jackson does have a club option of $7 million for next season, with a $2 million buyout should the Braves decline. Obviously, his recent performances and season numbers doesn't lead you to believe the Braves will be picking that option up this offseason.
It's a pretty similar scenario to the Kirby Yates club option they had last offseason, which they of course ended up declining. Time will tell if Jackson even remains on the roster long enough for the Braves to have to make that decision.