Let’s talk about some under-the-radar moves that could have an impact for the Atlanta Braves down the line.
Atlanta has added two new names to the mix—relief pitcher Dany Jiménez and catcher Chandler Seagle—on minor league deals.
Now, these aren’t blockbuster signings on the surface, but if you’re paying attention to the Braves’ depth chart, you’ll see why they make a lot of sense.
Braves Add Bullpen Depth with Dany Jiménez Signing
Let’s start with Jiménez. The 30-year-old right-hander is coming off a few seasons with the Oakland A’s, where he even served as their closer for part of 2022.
That year, he locked down 11 saves while posting a solid 3.41 ERA and striking out 34 batters in just over 34 innings. But things took a bit of a downturn in 2023 and 2024, as his ERA climbed and his control issues became a problem.
Last season, he walked 19 batters in just 25.2 innings—a 6.7 BB/9 rate that is alarming. On top of that, he gave up six home runs in those innings, which is not what you want out of a late-innings arm.
So why take a chance on him? Well, if the Braves can help him regain his control, he’s got the stuff to be a reliable bullpen piece. And let’s face it: Atlanta could use some extra help from that department.
With A.J. Minter gone and Joe Jiménez set to miss the first few months of the season due to surgery, the Braves don’t have as much bullpen depth as they’d like. Jiménez isn’t a guaranteed solution, but he’s worth a shot at a low-risk price tag.
Chandler Seagle Brings Catching Depth
Now, let’s talk about Seagle. The 28-year-old catcher doesn’t bring much offensive firepower—he slashed just .180/.219/.280 in Triple-A last season and has a career .201 batting average in seven minor league seasons.
He did get a brief cup of coffee in the big leagues with the Padres in 2023, but that lasted exactly one plate appearance, where he grounded out.
So, what’s the appeal? Simple: catching depth. The Braves now have Sean Murphy as their everyday guy, with Chadwick Tromp as the likely backup.
But if injuries strike early in the season and top catching prospect Drake Baldwin isn’t ready for the show, Seagle could serve as a temporary backup.
Low-Risk, Depth-Oriented Signings
Bottom line? Neither of these signings is flashy, but they serve a purpose. Jiménez gives Atlanta another bullpen option in a year where they might need it, and Seagle adds insurance behind the plate. In a 162-game season, depth moves like these can quietly make a difference.
