One of the Atlanta Braves’ primary goals this free agency period was to secure a high-end closer. Several names were rumored as potential candidates. For the last few years, it has been Raisel Iglesias. Although he struggled at times last season, the potential for a reunion remained after the Braves chose not to trade him.
“When Atlanta didn’t trade Raisel Iglesias this season, some fans wondered if this was a sign the closer would stick around beyond this year. Well, he could have been traded and still re-signed this offseason. But now, he could just be re-signed,” Braves insider Mark Bowman wrote.
On Wednesday night, the Braves made it official, bringing Iglesias back on a favorable one-year deal that reunites the team with their veteran closer.
“Veteran closer Raisel Iglesias, who really bounced back down the stretch this season, is back with the Braves on a one-year, $16M deal, the team announced,” ESPN’s Alden Gonzalez posted.
The good news for Atlanta is that, for the time being, they now have a reliable closer. It helps that Iglesias was named Reliever of the Month in August, returning to form during the latter stage of the season. To make the signing even more impressive, the Braves reportedly outbid both the Toronto Blue Jays and the Los Angeles Dodgers.
“Per sources, Raisel Iglesias received offers from the Dodgers and Blue Jays worth around $16 million, but ultimately chose to return to the Braves,” reporter Francys Romero wrote.
Outbidding a World Series contender like the Dodgers for Iglesias is a significant win for the Braves. Perhaps part of the appeal was Iglesias’ familiarity with Atlanta, but regardless, it’s a major pickup.
The Blue Jays and Dodgers will continue to pursue big-name free agents, but this time, it was the Braves who came out on top. Now, Atlanta looks to continue its impressive offseason, which is expected to be a major one.
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