From the moment the Atlanta Braves traded for him in 2022, Raisel Iglesias has been a pro’s pro and a key part of some really good teams. After absolutely dominating for the Braves immediately after being acquired, Iglesias spent the next four seasons giving Atlanta a 2.60 ERA across 252.1 innings in 253 appearances. When the dust settles on his tenure with the Braves, he will absolutely be considered one of the best closers to ever play in Atlanta. Sadly, that tenure may be ending very soon.
When Iglesias became a free agent after last season, there seemed to be a real chance that he would move on. However, the Braves wanted him back, and Iglesias wanted to return, so the two sides agreed to a one-year deal worth $16 million. For the most part, the deal benefitted both sides and continued what has been a great partnership.
However, a year later and in seemingly the same situation, it feels like the circumstances with both the Braves and Iglesias are not nearly as favorable to a reunion with the veteran reliever.
Raisel Iglesias' age and the Braves' stacked bullpen could make a reunion tough
If Iglesias wants to give the Braves a significant discount in order to come back, then Atlanta would be silly not to entertain the idea. While Iglesias is no longer in his prime, he did post a 2.55 ERA and 3.17 FIP in 59 appearances for the Braves in 2026. To call him washed up would be factually inaccurate, and odds are good Iglesias would be a very productive member of the Braves' bullpen if he did come back.
However, that does not mean the Braves should repeat the same strategy they used with Iglesias last year. At almost 37 years old, we are reaching the point where a major drop-off from Iglesias is becoming more and more likely. Iglesias has already seen his strikeout rate regress from his peak, and Atlanta was hesitant to use him against particularly tough left-handed hitters, and with good reason.
It is more than just planning for a decline in Iglesias' case, though. The Braves already brought in Robert Suarez as Iglesias' heir apparent at closer last offseason. Assuming Suarez's arm is healthy, do the Braves REALLY want to commit the same kind of major resources that might be required to reunite with Iglesias, with Suarez around and so many other roster areas to hopefully address this offseason?
Alex Anthopoulos does like having a strong bullpen, and there is obvious affection between the two sides. If Iglesias wants to come back on a significantly cheaper salary, and potentially accept a lesser relief role, then sure. However, if Iglesias is set on staying as a closer and to get paid as he has been, the Braves may be best served by shaking Iggy's hand and thanking him for his service.
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