While everyone loves to focus on the Atlanta Braves’ ability to lock up their core position players, one area of the roster looks a little murky for the future.
We’re talking about the bullpen, specifically the closer’s role. That means it’s time to chat a little about Raisel Iglesias.
The Braves’ Approach to Contracts: Smart But Selective
The Braves have earned a reputation for making smart, team-friendly deals. These deals include guys like Ronald Acuña Jr., Ozzie Albies, Matt Olson, Austin Riley, and the rest of the gang.
But one thing they haven’t done? Hand out long-term, big-money deals to relievers. That’s why Iglesias’ future with the team is looking uncertain despite the fact that he’s got a firm grip on the closer role.
Here’s where things get interesting. Iglesias has been lights-out so far in spring training. If that carries over into the regular season, he’s going to put himself in a strong position to cash in when he hits free agency after 2025. The Braves, meanwhile, are sitting in a bit of a financial gray area.
They’ve got some flexibility, but a few big decisions loom—Chris Sale’s option, the possibility of bringing back Marcell Ozuna, and the constant balancing act that comes with running a roster as stacked as Atlanta’s.
Money Isn’t the Biggest Issue—Years Are
The issue isn’t so much Iglesias’ salary. He’s making $16 million this year, and given his track record, he will probably want something similar—if not a little more—on a new multi-year deal.
The Braves can likely stomach that number. What they can’t do is hand out a contract that locks them in for too many years, especially with Iglesias turning 35.
Unless he’s open to something with club options built in, Atlanta might not be willing to go down that road.
Could Iglesias Become a Trade Candidate?
And here’s the wild card: If the Braves already suspect they’re not going to extend him, does he become a trade candidate at the deadline? It’s not out of the question.
The Braves have championship aspirations, so moving a key bullpen arm mid-season would be risky. But, if they think they can get ahead of the curve and avoid losing him for nothing, stranger things have happened.
For now, Iglesias is still the guy in the ninth inning. But long-term? The Braves might have to get creative—or start scouting their next elite closer sooner rather than later.
