Potential Hall of Fame closer leaves Rays to become free agent

A few days ago, the Tampa Bay Rays designated a potential future Hall of Fame closer for assignment. 

Today, the right-hander has decided to become a free agent instead of accepting an outright assignment to Triple-A. 

According to Marc Topkin of The Tampa Bay Times, Craig Kimbrel will enter free agency after a 19-game stint with the Rays. 

Tampa Bay cut ties with the nine-time All-Star to clear roster space for starter Freddy Peralta, who was acquired before Monday's deadline from the New York Mets. 

The Mets are one of the six organizations Kimbrel has suited up for since 2024, throwing 15 innings for the NL East club earlier this year. 

In 18.2 innings with the Rays, Kimbrel posted a respectable 3.86 ERA and struck out 17 of the 80 batters he faced. 

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Kimbrel is fifth on the all-time saves list with 440. At his peak, he was a flamethrower who recorded 42 or more saves in four consecutive seasons with the Atlanta Braves from 2011-14. 

With a Rookie of the Year Award, nine All-Star selections, and several dominant seasons under his belt, Kimbrel should receive strong consideration for the Hall of Fame. 

At 38 years old, he remains relatively effective on the mound, so another interested club could give him a look on a minor league deal. 

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