The Atlanta Braves front office is making moves. They have added two more pitchers to the mix, signing lefty Jake Diekman and right-hander Dylan Covey to minor league deals with invitations to Spring Training.
They’ll join Chad Kuhl, who signed back on February 5, as non-roster invitees looking to earn a spot on the big league club.
Now, let’s break down what these signings mean because, on the surface, this might seem like just a few depth moves.
But if we’ve learned anything about the Braves in recent years, they love finding hidden value in arms that other teams might have overlooked.
Chad Kuhl: Looking for a Bounce Back With the Braves
Starting with Kuhl—last season wasn’t exactly one for the record books, but there’s reason to think he could contribute. He made 31 appearances (one start) and put up a 5.06 ERA with 54 strikeouts in 53 1/3 innings.
While those numbers don’t scream dominance, it was actually his best ERA since 2021. That tells you he’s had some rough stretches, but maybe there’s something the Braves see that they can fine-tune.
Jake Diekman: Feast or Famine?
Diekman is the ultimate wild card here. This guy has been around for 13 seasons, and when he’s on, he’s a legit bullpen weapon. But when he’s off?
Well, last season with the Mets, he posted a 5.63 ERA in 43 appearances—not ideal. But just a year prior, he had a sparkling 2.18 ERA in 50 games with the Rays.
So, which Diekman do the Braves get? If he finds his groove, Atlanta’s bullpen just got much deeper.
Dylan Covey: A Sneaky Long Relief Option
Covey’s road back to the majors has been a winding one. After appearing for the Phillies in 2023 (posting a respectable 3.69 ERA in 39 innings), he spent 2024 rehabbing from a right shoulder strain.
The Mets gave him a shot this offseason, but ultimately, DFA’d him, sending him into free agency.
Now, he lands in Atlanta with a new deal, where he could serve as a valuable long-relief option—something every team needs over the grind of a 162-game season.
What’s Next For the Braves?
Spring Training will be the real test. All three of these guys are coming in with something to prove, and the Braves will be watching closely to see if any of them can earn a role for Opening Day.
Even if they don’t make the roster immediately, Atlanta has built a strong track record of utilizing depth pieces throughout the season.
Bottom line? These aren’t flashy moves, but they could be quietly important ones. Let’s see who steps up.
