Braves Shakeup: Craig Kimbrel’s Future and Yu Darvish’s Surprising Retirement Decision Unveiled

The Atlanta Braves are holding their breath as the frenetic velocity of the free agent frenzy and trade whirlwinds begin to settle down—Spring Training is nearly upon us, just a couple of weeks away now. It’s a hush before the storm, yet the buzz lingers slightly, with names like Framber Valdez, Chris Bassitt, and Nick Pivetta hovering on the radar, tempting possibilities that could plug key holes in Atlanta’s rotation. But let’s be real—the clock’s ticking faster than expected, and decisions need to come quick if the Braves want to make a meaningful splash before helmets hit the diamond. Meanwhile, the wider MLB landscape keeps churning stories: Jose Ramirez locking in a blockbuster extension with some crafty deferrals attached, Yu Darvish pondering a shocking exit from the Padres scene, and the Mets stirring things up by signing Craig Kimbrel to a minor league deal—a move that’s definitely raising eyebrows over in Braves territory. This quiet before the chaos is almost deafening, and for true baseball fans, the next couple of weeks promise some riveting developments. LEARN MORE

Things are largely quiet on the Braves’ front, as we wait for the last of the free agent market and the trade market to settle, going into Spring Training in two weeks. There are still starters that would make sense for Atlanta (Framber Valdez, Chris Bassitt, Nick Pivetta, etc.) on the open market and via trade, but time is running out before Spring Training starts.

MLB News

Jose Ramirez agreed to an extension adding over $100 million and 4 years to his existing contract, with significant deferrals.

Yu Darvish is seriously considering voiding his contract with the Padres and retiring.

The Mets signed Craig Kimbrel to a minor league deal, in a move that is aesthetically unpleasing to Braves fans.