My first reaction to Craig Kimbrel’s new deal with the Atlanta Braves was a sigh of relief and eagerness for a team that has the aptitude to have a very successful 2014 season.
On Sunday, Kimbrel avoided salary arbitration by agreeing to a long-term deal with the Braves.
The Braves have locked down their star players by offering them long-term deals to avoid arbitration trials. Kimbrel is now added to that list and will join Freddie Freeman, Jason Heyward and Julio Teheran as they play under those contracts for the next several years.
For Kimbrel, the Braves decided on a four-year $42 million contract with the all-star closer. Kimbrel has lead the National League in saves in each of his last three seasons with more than 138 saves total. He tallied up 97 backwards K’s in just 67 innings in the 2013 season.
The 25-year-old right-handed pitcher will be able to add value to his contract by earning points for various things such as winning an All-Star or MVP award. And Kimbrel is more than capable of earning those awards. He is also eligible to add 2018 to his contract with a $1 million buyout.
Watching the all-star live is exhilarating. As soon as he comes in to close the game, fans across the stadium rise to their feet and cheer as they depend on him to pull through.
Kimbrel had 50 saves out of 54 attempts in last year’s season, an MLB best. Can you imagine saving the day 50 times and only failing four? The Braves certainly do not disagree with the belief that he is the best closer in baseball, and neither do I.
Kimbrel is one of the best assets the Braves have. The hero pitcher is happy to be staying with the Braves, and I am eager to see what else he can bring to the table.
I have been pulling for Kimbrel since the day I discovered he played two years of baseball at Wallace State Community College prior to being drafted for the second time by the Braves. As a former community college athlete, I recognize the true talent that can come out of smaller schools.
The Huntsville local admitted he hoped to stay close to home. He made it clear that Atlanta was where he wanted to be. It was where he has been since he was drafted in the 3rd round in 2008. For Braves fans like me, it is where we hope he stays.
