The Atlanta Braves have recalled Craig Kimbrel, bringing one of the most dominant closers in franchise and MLB history back to where it all began. For Braves fans, it’s more than just a roster move. It’s a reunion with one of the most electrifying arms the game has ever seen.
Here’s a look back at Kimbrel’s unforgettable Braves career and what it means to see No. 46 (or whatever number he wears this time) back in the bullpen.
The move comes on the heels of a massive ninth-inning collapse by the Braves’ bullpen. The Braves allowed seven runs in the ninth inning to lose 11-10. Closer Raisel Iglesias now has a 6.75 ERA with five losses on the season.
Rather than spend a bunch of time being negative about the state of the team. Let’s take a look back at what Craig Kimbrel has meant to the Braves franchise.
Kimbrel’s Braves Debut
Craig Kimbrel made his MLB debut with the Braves on May 7, 2010. It didn’t take long for fans to realize they were watching something special. Armed with a triple-digit fastball and a wipeout curve, Kimbrel struck out two in a scoreless first inning and never looked back.
By 2011, he was already a household name, setting the MLB rookie record with 46 saves that season and earning NL Rookie of the Year honors.
Braves Franchise Records Craig Kimbrel Holds
Kimbrel isn’t just a former Brave—he’s one of the best ever to wear the uniform. Here are some of the franchise records he still holds:
- Most saves in a season: 50 (2013)
- Most career saves by a Brave: 186
- Highest career K/9 in Braves history (min. 100 IP): 14.8
- Career ERA with Atlanta: 1.43 over 289 innings
- Four-time All-Star with Atlanta: 2011–2014
He was also part of one of the most feared bullpen trios in modern Braves history alongside Eric O’Flaherty and Jonny Venters.
Why Craig Kimbrel’s Return Matters
Bringing Kimbrel back isn’t just about nostalgia. The Braves’ bullpen has been shaky in 2025, and adding a veteran who thrives under pressure could be a stabilizing force, especially if he’s used in a late-inning or high-leverage role.
For fans, it’s a full-circle moment. Kimbrel wasn’t just dominant—he had flair. The signature “Kimbrel crouch” as he leaned over the mound, staring down batters with arms dangling like a raptor, became iconic.
Fun Facts About Craig Kimbrel
- 9-time All-Star
- Over 430 career saves, currently 8th all-time in MLB history
- Made the final out of the 2018 World Series as the closer for the Red Sox
- Has pitched for the Braves, Padres, Red Sox, Cubs, White Sox, Dodgers, Phillies, and now, again—the Braves
- Once went over 30 straight appearances without giving up a run in 2011
- Led the league in saves for four straight years between 2011-2014 with a 1.51 ERA.
What Number Will He Wear?
In his first stint with Atlanta, Kimbrel wore #46. Kimbrel was also called up with Dylan Dodd who is currently #46. It appears Dylan Dodd has handed his number over to Craig Kimbrel so the legend can return.
Kimbrel’s Career
Kimbrel has played with eight teams over his Major League career. He has a career ERA of 2.59 over 15 damn years. Granted, Kimbrel struggled in 52.1 innings with Baltimore last year, but he has been wonderful in the minor leagues for the Braves this year. Between Double and Triple-A, he has posted a 2.00 ERA over 18 innings with 23 strikeouts and nine walks.
Is Kimbrel going to be the closer? Probably not right away, but who knows? I do have him stashed on my fantasy baseball roster, though. If he’s pitching well, why wouldn’t you turn it over to one of the greatest closers in the history of the game?
I also have Pierce Johnson, Daysbel Hernandez, and Dylan Lee stashed on my roster too… I’m completely out of room with all the Braves stashing. I’m not very good at it.
Final Thoughts
Whether he pitches the 7th or the 9th, whether he’s still got the triple-digit heat or leans more on his curve, one thing is sure: Atlanta could use some help at the backend of their bullpen, and some vintage Kimbrel could be just the injection of life we all need.
Read About Atlanta Braves Cards
- Most Valuable Chipper Jones Rookie Cards
- Most Valuable Greg Maddux Rookie Cards
- Most Valuable Hank Aaron Cards
- Most Valuable Max Fried Braves Cards
- Most Valuable Freddie Freeman Cards
Support our site via our eBay affiliate links or our Atlanta Braves Card Shop.
Check out our other sports cards and memorabilia at our eBay shop.
Leave a Reply