MLB Fans React to Craig Kimbrel’s Major Career Move After Braves Release originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
Life can be hectic for MLB relief pitchers, and former Atlanta Braves hurler Craig Kimbrel is a prime example. The 37-year-old has 440 career saves, second only to Los Angeles Angels closer Kenley Jansen among active players, but that hasn’t stopped him from bouncing around the league.
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Kimbrel has played for a different squad each season ever since the Chicago Cubs traded him to the Chicago White Sox in 2021. The nine-time All-Star pitched for the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2022, the Philadelphia Phillies in 2023, and the Baltimore Orioles in 2024 before tossing one inning for the Braves this season.
However, Kimbrel is already on another team after Atlanta designated him for assignment, via The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal.
Former Atlanta Braves pitcher Craig Kimbrel (46).Robert Edwards-Imagn Images
“Craig Kimbrel signing minor-league deal with [the Texas] Rangers, source tells The Athletic,” he reported. “Kimbrel elected free agency after the Braves designated him for assignment.”
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Kimbrel converted 23 out of 29 save opportunities for Baltimore last season and had a 5.33 ERA in 57 appearances.
MLB fans had mixed reactions.
“He should retire to be honest,” one person said.
“Hope they show him more respect than the Braves did,” another said.
“Can he hit better than .215?” one asked.
“BREAKING: Craig Kimbrel has been DFA’d by the Rangers,” another said sarcastically.
“Craig Cookedbrel,” another said.
Kimbrel started his big-league career with the Braves from 2010-14 before pitching for the San Diego Padres in 2015. The right-hander then played for the Boston Red Sox from 2016-18 and won the World Series with them in 2018.
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Kimbrel also pitched for the Chicago Cubs from 2019 until they dealt him in 2021.
Related: Fans Upset After Braves’ Craig Kimbrel Announcement on Saturday
Related: Craig Kimbrel Makes Next Move After Braves Release
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 10, 2025, where it first appeared.