Just days into the 2024 MLB offseason, the Atlanta Braves have suffered a significant blow with the news that setup reliever Joe Jimenez will be sidelined for 8 to 12 months following surgery to repair cartilage in his left knee. The procedure, which took place on October 29, 2024, was reported by The Athletic’s David O’Brien, marking a challenging start to the offseason for the Braves.
Key Takeaways
Joe Jimenez underwent knee surgery on October 29, 2024.
Expected recovery time is 8 to 12 months, impacting the 2025 season.
Jimenez had a standout 2023 season with a 2.62 ERA and 82 strikeouts.
The Braves may need to seek additional bullpen help this offseason.
Jimenez, 30, emerged as one of the Braves’ most reliable relievers during the 2023 season, boasting an impressive 2.62 ERA over 68 2/3 innings, along with 82 strikeouts. His versatility was evident as he served as the backup closer when Raisel Iglesias was unavailable, successfully saving seven games throughout the season.
The Braves acquired Jimenez from the Detroit Tigers in December 2022 and subsequently rewarded him with a three-year, $26 million contract extension after he posted a solid 3.04 ERA in 2023. With $18 million remaining on his contract, the Braves now face uncertainty regarding his availability for the 2025 season due to this injury.
This setback has created an immediate need for the Braves to bolster their bullpen. Recently, the team traded Jorge Soler and the remaining $26 million on his contract to the Los Angeles Angels, which may indicate a shift in strategy as they look to fill the void left by Jimenez.
Potential Internal Options
With Jimenez out, the Braves will need to consider their internal options to step up in the bullpen. Some of the candidates include:
Pierce Johnson – 3.67 ERA, 67 strikeouts in 56 1/3 innings.
Dylan Lee – 2.11 ERA, 76 strikeouts in 59 2/3 innings.
Grant Holmes – 3.56 ERA, 70 strikeouts in 68 1/3 innings.
Daysbel Hernández – 2.50 ERA, 26 strikeouts in 18 innings.
Free Agency Considerations
If the Braves opt to explore free agency for a replacement, several top right-handed relievers are available, including:
Jeff Hoffman – 2.17 ERA, 89 strikeouts in 66 1/3 innings (Phillies).
Carlos Estevez – 2.45 ERA, 50 strikeouts in 55 innings (Angels).
Additionally, former closers such as Aroldis Chapman and Kenley Jansen could be viable options for Braves’ general manager Alex Anthopoulos to consider as he navigates this challenging offseason.
As the Braves look to regroup and address their bullpen needs, the absence of Jimenez will undoubtedly be felt as they prepare for the upcoming season. The team will need to act swiftly to ensure they remain competitive in the highly contested National League.
