It looks like the Atlanta Braves keep their bullpen options open and heading into spring training. The latest addition? Veteran left-handed reliever Jake Diekman is joining Atlanta on a minor league deal with an invite to camp.
According to Justin Toscano of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Diekman will be in the mix alongside recently signed right-handers Chad Kuhl and Dylan Covey as pitchers and catchers report for their first workout.
Diekman: A Veteran Lefty with Something to Prove
If you’ve been paying attention to the Braves’ offseason, you’ll notice a theme here: experience, experience, experience.
Diekman is no stranger to the big leagues—he’s logged time with nine different teams and is now eyeing Atlanta as his tenth stop. Over 705 relief appearances, he’s consistently been a high-strikeout, high-walk kind of guy.
Last season with the Mets, he fanned batters at an impressive clip of 11.3 strikeouts per nine innings, but control remained an issue, walking 6.75 per nine. Add in a dip in his four-seam fastball velocity, and you get a pitcher trying to prove he’s still got enough in the tank to contribute.
Diekman would be the third lefty option in the Braves’ bullpen behind Aaron Bummer and Dylan Lee if he makes the squad. Of course, there’s another wild card here: Angel Perdomo, who’s returning from injury after missing the 2024 season.
Let’s not forget Chasen Shreve—another veteran lefty who signed a minor league deal last month. Atlanta is leaving no stone unturned when it comes to left-handed relief options.
Dylan Covey: A Depth Option with Starting Experience
Covey brings versatility and experience to the organization, having pitched in 100 big-league games, including 46 starts.
Most of his early career innings came with the White Sox, but those weren’t exactly Cy Young-caliber outings. Still, he’s got value as a depth piece who can eat innings if needed.
Covey’s ability to work as either a starter or reliever gives the Braves some additional flexibility, especially if injuries crop up during the season.
While he’s not likely to crack the Opening Day roster, he’s another veteran arm that can be stashed in Triple-A until needed.
Atlanta Braves Bottom Line
The Braves are taking a “more is more” approach regarding their pitching depth this spring. Whether Diekman, Covey, or Kuhl crack the Opening Day roster remains to be seen.
Atlanta is ensuring they have plenty of options. One thing’s for sure—competition in camp is about to get interesting.
