Chris Sale is officially getting the ball for the Braves on Opening Day, and honestly, this feels like the perfect way to start the 2025 season.
The veteran lefty has been through it all—dominant seasons, injuries, and everything in between—but now, he’s back in the spotlight, leading one of baseball’s most talented rotations.
Braves’ Bullpen Taking Shape
While Sale’s role at the top of the rotation is clear, the bullpen picture has been anything but. Over the past few days, the Braves have made a flurry of moves to solidify the relief corps.
The biggest surprise? Bringing back franchise saves leader Craig Kimbrel on a minor league deal. He plans to join the bullpen within the next month if all goes well. Adding veteran experience to a group that has been in flux all spring seems like a strategic move.
Another key move was the release of veteran lefty Jake Diekman, who had been competing for a spot as a non-roster invitee. Diekman had his moments but struggled with command—something that’s been an issue throughout his career.
He posted a 4.91 ERA over 7.1 innings, striking out eight but walking four in seven Grapefruit League appearances. His track record of control issues ultimately made him expendable.
Why the Braves Moved on from Diekman
Diekman’s release wasn’t just about one rough spring but a larger trend. The lefty has always battled command issues. He is carrying a career 13.4% walk rate over 600+ innings. Atlanta simply couldn’t afford to take the risk with more reliable options available.
This decision also highlights the Braves’ confidence in their remaining left-handed relievers. Aaron Bummer and Dylan Lee will be the only two in the bullpen to start the season. This is a clear sign that the team believes they can handle the workload.
Braves Go All-In on Lee and Bummer
By cutting Diekman and trading Angel Perdomo to the Angels, Atlanta has put full trust in Bummer and Lee as the team’s two left-handed options out of the bullpen.
Bummer was acquired from the White Sox back in 2023. He has electric stuff but has also battled inconsistency. On the other hand, Lee has been a steady presence for Atlanta and seems poised to take on a larger role.
Kimbrel Could Be the Final Piece
The Braves are locking in their pitching staff with Opening Day only a week from now. Sale will lead the charge while the bullpen continues to take shape around a mix of trusted arms and new faces.
If Kimbrel can prove he’s still got something left in the tank, he could be the final piece to a bullpen that suddenly looks a lot more defined than it did just a few days ago.
