Kimbrel spent the 2024 season with the Orioles after signing a one-year, $13 million deal, going 7-5 with a 5.33 ERA and 23 saves as the replacement for injured closer Félix Bautista before being cut in September.

One day after bringing back Craig Kimbrel, perhaps the greatest closer in franchise history, the struggling Atlanta Braves have designated the veteran reliever for assignment. The club recalled left-hander Austin Cox in a corresponding move.

The Atlanta Braves’ handling of Craig Kimbrel was completely baffling. The Braves in March signed Kimbrel to a minor-league deal. He pitched in three games for Double-A Columbus and was nearly flawless with no hits and only one walk allowed over 3.