Former players haunting their old team is something we see time and time again in Major League Baseball. Atlanta Braves fans know all too well how former players seem to play at their best when matching up against former teammates. It is even worse when those former players are playing well for division rivals. Next season, a former Braves' bullpen stud may just get the chance to swing the NL East in the favor of one Atlanta's biggest rivals.
A.J. Minter signed with the Mets last offseason, and 2026 may be his first chance to torment Braves' hitters. Minter spent the first eight years of his career with Atlanta, and was a huge part of the "night shift," crew that helped bring a World Series title to Atlanta. However, because of season ending lat surgery in 2025, Minter never got the chance to pitch against his former team. Next season, Minter will be looking to bounce back, and his performance could be a major key in deciding who wins the NL East.
AJ Minter's 3Ks in the 7th pic.twitter.com/kExC4mPuHZ
— Rob Friedman (@PitchingNinja) April 4, 2025
A.J. Minter could be key difference in Mets bullpen, and haunt the Braves in 2026
Minter pitched in just 13 games for the Mets last season before suffering his lat injury. However, in that small sample size Minter posted a 1.64 ERA and showcased he is still a late-inning weapon when healthy. The Mets have made some puzzling decisions this offseason, and letting long-time closer Edwin Diaz walk in free agency ranks among the strangest. However, that gamble could pay off if newest addition Devin Williams and A.J. Minter form the dynamic late-inning duo fans in Queens are hoping for.
Similarly, the Braves have a new look backend of the bullpen, but uncertainty remains surrounding the middle relief options on the roster. The projected top three teams in the NL East (Braves, Mets, Phillies) all have flaws within their 26-man roster, and each teams bullpen feel near the top of the list. Despite the NL East teams roster differences, all figure to be in postseason contention. This is where each teams bullpens, and the ability to hold late-game leads could come into focus in 2026.
The head-to-head matchups between the Braves and Mets may very well decide the NL East. Most of the time the battles between these two clubs go down to the wire. Which new look bullpen is able to hold late-inning leads may prove to be the difference. The Braves look well equipped with Suarez and Iglesias, but a rejuvenated Minter could be the x-factor for New York.
The Braves dodged the Minter return last season, but in 2026 they will not be as lucky. Minter is beloved in Braves country, but next season we will all be rooting for Ronald Acuna Jr. to take him deep so that the Braves can reclaim their NL East throne.