UPDATE: The Atlanta Braves have just announced the retention of veteran closer Raisel Iglesias on a one-year, $16 million deal, effective immediately. This significant move comes as the Braves aim to bolster their bullpen for the upcoming season.
Iglesias, 35, recently entered free agency following a challenging season where his ERA climbed to 3.21, up from 1.95 in 2024. Despite this dip, he has been a pivotal player for the Braves over the past four seasons, amassing 97 saves, a record of 15-12, and a stellar 2.35 ERA. His performance has solidified him as one of the top closers in Major League Baseball.
In 2025, Iglesias made notable adjustments to his pitching strategy, reducing his reliance on his slider and changeup from 52% of pitches in 2024 to just 38%. This shift resulted in a drop in effectiveness, as indicated by Baseball Savant’s run value metrics, which showed a stark contrast from +13 runs in 2024 to -10 runs in 2025.
Since becoming a full-time closer in 2017, Iglesias ranks third in baseball with 11.8 WAR among relievers, just behind Edwin Diaz and Josh Hader. He is also second in saves with 247, trailing only Kenley Jansen, solidifying his reputation as a reliable finisher.
Before joining the Braves, Iglesias spent six seasons with the Cincinnati Reds, who signed him as an international free agent in 2014. He debuted in 2015 and quickly became a standout pitcher. In 2021, he signed a lucrative four-year, $58 million contract with the Los Angeles Angels and finished 11th in AL Cy Young Award voting before being traded to the Braves at the 2022 trade deadline.
The Braves’ decision to keep Iglesias underscores their commitment to a strong bullpen as they prepare for the upcoming season. Fans should keep an eye on how this contract impacts the team’s performance in 2025 and beyond.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story!