Let’s talk about a name that’s become known for stability and consistency with the Atlanta Braves —Jesse Chavez. The 41-year-old right-hander is eyeing a return to Major League Baseball in 2025.
You have to wonder if the Braves could bring him back yet again? It wouldn’t be the most surprising move, given their recent bullpen losses.
If there’s one thing Braves Country has learned over the past few years, it’s that Chavez is like that favorite old glove—he just fits.
Since his latest return to Atlanta in August 2022 (after a short and forgettable stint with the Angels), Chavez has been a steady presence in the bullpen.
And while he wasn’t necessarily the guy Brian Snitker called on in nail-biting, high-leverage moments last season, his 3.13 ERA across 63.1 innings proves he can still get the job done.
Atlanta’s Bullpen Faces Uncertainty Heading into 2025
Here’s the thing: Atlanta has some serious question marks heading into the 2025 season.
Losing A.J. Minter to the Mets stings. Tanner Scott, another potential bullpen target, is off to the Dodgers.
And let’s not forget setup man Joe Jiménez is recovering from knee surgery and might miss the entire season.
That’s a lot of innings to replace, and while Chavez isn’t the flashiest option on the board, he’s a known commodity.
Chavez: A Reliable Option with Proven Success
Let’s not forget how well he’s performed over the past few seasons. Since 2021, Chavez has quietly put together a rock-solid 2.91 ERA across four seasons.
He’s a guy with a knack for limiting walks and keeping the ball on the ground. Sure, his strikeout rate dipped in 2024, but the Braves need innings.
Still, his ability to generate weak contact and eat-up innings makes him a valuable asset for any bullpen—especially one looking to patch a few holes without breaking the bank.
Is Chavez the blockbuster signing that Braves fans were hoping for this offseason? No, of course not. But is he the kind of smart, under-the-radar addition that could pay off big in the long run? Absolutely.
After all, this is a guy who has been through four different stints with the Braves and keeps finding his way back for a reason.
Atlanta knows what they’re getting—a dependable arm, a positive clubhouse presence, and someone who’s beloved by the fanbase.
A Smart, Low-Risk Move for the Braves
Bringing Chavez back on a one-year deal wouldn’t just be a sentimental move but a practical one.
With uncertainty swirling around the bullpen, adding a familiar face with a track record of steady performance could help stabilize the bullpen.
At the same time, the front office can continue to search for bigger upgrades. Don’t be surprised if you see Chavez back in that Atlanta uniform again.
