Conventional wisdom says that four games into the Major League Baseball season is far too soon to overreact to early performances. However, for the Atlanta Braves bullpen, the concerns reach back to last season. Despite winning the NL East, the bullpen was an obvious weak spot for the team in 2018. Most expected the front office to make some improvements this off-season, but the team entered 2019 with many of the same faces in the bullpen from 2018.
Atlanta Braves Bullpen Starting to Take Shape
2018 Struggles
The 2018 successes came despite a shaky bullpen. Statistically, Atlanta’s bullpen was very average last season. The team blew 20 save chances, converting only 67% of those opportunities. Primary closer Arodys Vizcaino was dependable last season, converting 16 of his 18 save chances. However, shoulder injuries limited the right-hander, putting him on the shelf on two separate occasions. The instability at the back of the bullpen had a ripple effect on the team.
During Vizcaino’s absences, A.J. Minter was often called on to be the closer. He filled in admirably while tallying 15 saves. He may develop into a steady closer, but the youngster could benefit from more innings in lower leverage situations.
Several other pitchers were called on to close out games last season. Nine different pitchers earned a save throughout the season. Overall, the bullpen registered a 4.15 ERA with a 1.397 WHIP.
Mostly Familiar Faces
Most Braves fans assumed that a Craig Kimbrel reunion was in the works this off-season and that all the bullpen troubles would be solved. We are a week into the season and Kimbrel remains unsigned. His presence and experience would certainly go a long way to solidify the back end of the pitching staff, but the Braves are prepared to proceed without him.
Late in Spring Training, the Braves signed Josh Tomlin to a minor league deal. He is expected to contribute as a long reliever. Sam Freeman was designated for assignment, and Dan Winkler is slated to start the season at Triple-A Gwinnett. Wes Parsons made the big league opening day roster, and Max Fried has been getting in some relief work in before he joins the rotation Thursday against the Cubs. The rest of the bullpen is made up of mostly the same faces from last season.
Max Fried vs. Yu Darvish in Thursday's series finale.@Braves | #ChopOn pic.twitter.com/bKfsvfct6Z
— Bally Sports: Braves (@BravesOnBally) April 4, 2019
Early Season Analysis
Through five games this season, the bullpen has been steady but unspectacular. The stats are not eye-popping, and critics will anecdotally point to a couple of bad innings, but at this early stage of the season, one or two bad outings can really skew the numbers.
Vizcaino picked up his first save Wednesday against the Chicago Cubs. Minter has been working his way back from injury and is expected to rejoin the bullpen late this week. His return will help provide dependable depth. Chad Sobotka, Jesse Biddle, and Parsons continue to earn valuable experience and develop their repertoire. Their continued development will go a long way in determining the overall success of the Braves this season.
Mike Foltynewicz and Kevin Gausman are expected to be back in the starting rotation in the next couple of weeks with Gausman slated as the probable starter for Friday’s game. Those healthy arms will mean the Braves have several roster moves to make. Those moves will likely mean Carle and Jackson will lose their spot in the bullpen. The gluttony of young pitchers that the Braves have will give them several strong options to bolster their bullpen and make it a potential strength for the team going forward. The abundance of young pitching will also allow the Braves to make a trade if the current relievers do not improve.
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