The Atlanta Braves offseason may be in full swing, but the news is starting to heat up as spring training draws nearer.
This week, the Braves avoided arbitration by settling contracts with Jarred Kelenic and Dylan Lee, resolving two key roster questions.
But the offseason puzzle is far from complete, so let’s dive into the latest updates.
Raisel Iglesias: A Quietly Dominant Force
Braves fans have every reason to celebrate Raisel Iglesias, who’s cemented himself as one of baseball’s elite closers. Since joining Atlanta in 2022, Iglesias has been nothing short of sensational, but his 2024 performance was next-level.
At age 34, he posted a sparkling 1.95 ERA, an absurdly low 0.74 WHIP, and racked up 34 saves. His 35.1-inning scoreless streak was simply jaw-dropping.
Somehow, though, Iglesias didn’t earn an All-Star nod, a glaring oversight considering his dominance. A 2025 ASG appearance in Atlanta would be the perfect redemption arc, and ranking 10th on MLB Network’s Top 10 Right Now list is a good starting point.
That said, there’s a case for him being underrated. Iglesias outperformed higher-ranked relievers like Jeff Hoffman and Ryan Helsley in several key categories, but regardless of the rankings, the Braves have an elite bullpen weapon in their arsenal.
Wiley Ballard: Braves’ Broadcast Gem
The Braves’ success isn’t just confined to the field—it also shines in the broadcast booth. Wiley Ballard made an impact in 2024 as a full-time sideline reporter after sporadic appearances on Braves LIVE the previous year. His charismatic presence and in-depth knowledge quickly endeared him to fans.
Ballard, who also lends his voice to Georgia Tech baseball, took his talents to the next level by calling a few Braves games on the radio. His hard work and versatility didn’t go unnoticed.
The National Sports Media Association named him Georgia Sportscaster of the Year. Fans are already hoping Ballard will return for the 2025 season.
Ehire Adrianza: A New Role in Baseball
While Ehire Adrianza’s Braves tenure may not be Hall-of-Fame material, his impact is undeniable. His clutch NLCS hit in 2021 paved the way for Eddie Rosario’s legendary three-run homer, a moment that helped propel Atlanta to its first World Series title in over two decades.
Now retired, Adrianza is embarking on a new chapter as the Minnesota Twins’ Assistant of Player Development. Returning to the organization where he played from 2017 to 2020, Adrianza will focus on mentoring infielders across various levels.
His transition from player to executive is a full-circle moment, and fans everywhere wish him success in his post-playing career.
The Braves may still be shaping their 2025 roster, but between Iglesias’ dominance, Ballard’s broadcasting brilliance, and Adrianza’s career shift, there’s no shortage of exciting developments to keep fans engaged.
