Atlanta Braves closer Raisel Iglesias had a horrific start to the 2025 season. This bad start led many to believe the Braves would move on from him at the trade deadline. However, that didn't happen, and there are a few playoff teams who probably wish they'd traded for him.
Iglesias has turned things around in the second half. His ERA in the first half was an awful 4.42 over 36 innings. In the second half, it has dropped to an impressive 1.88 over 28 innings with eight walks and 28 strikeouts.
The end of the season has been even more impressive. From August until this point in the season, he has a 0.42 ERA over 21.2 innings with five walks, 22 strikeouts, and 15 saves. He's completely changed the trajectory of his offseason with that performance.
Figuring out where Raisel Iglesias will sign comes down to the Braves' first offer
The main question is, where will he end up next year? Iglesias will turn 36 next season, and there's no guarantee he will find this success again. However, it could make sense for the Braves to bring him back on a one or two-year deal. They have a couple of options they could try out at closer next year, but none with the experience Iggy has.
Atlanta could look to bring him back on a one-year guaranteed deal worth around $18 million. Consider adding a club option for a second year, if all goes well. Feels like this would be a very easy decision to make. Of course, this all depends on if the Braves feel like they have the ability to spend that much on an aging reliever with so many other needs to address. There are plenty of teams that could use a closer with Iglesias' pedigree.
If he doesn't return to Atlanta, rejoining the Reds or Angels feel like moves that could end up happening. The Cubs were rumored as potential suitors for a trade earlier this season, so there could be a fit there as well. Ultimately, remaining with the Braves for at least one more year is our guess for now.