Rays sign veteran closer Craig Kimbrel in bid to reinforce bullpen depth

The Tampa Bay Rays signed veteran right-hander Craig Kimbrel to a major league contract Tuesday, adding one of baseball’s most accomplished closers in an effort to strengthen a bullpen that has struggled despite the team’s strong start to the season. Tampa Bay also placed right-hander Jesse Scholtens on the 15-day injured list with a right wrist strain to clear a roster spot for Kimbrel.

Kimbrel, a nine-time All-Star and former National League Rookie of the Year, joins the Rays only days after being designated for assignment by the New York Mets. The 37-year-old elected free agency after refusing a minor league assignment and quickly landed with the American League-leading Rays, a franchise known for revitalizing veteran pitchers.

 Kimbrel posted a 6.00 ERA across 14 appearances with the Mets this season, allowing 10 earned runs over 15 innings while striking out 15 batters. Although his recent performances have been inconsistent, the Rays are betting on his extensive experience and swing-and-miss ability.

Rays turns to veteran closer for bullpen stability

Over his 17-year major league career, Kimbrel has compiled 440 saves, ranking fifth on MLB’s all-time saves list behind Mariano Rivera, Trevor Hoffman, Lee Smith and Kenley Jansen. He owns a career 2.65 ERA with 1,298 strikeouts in 866 appearances, numbers that still place him among the most dominant relievers of his generation.

Kimbrel originally rose to prominence with the Atlanta Braves, leading the National League in saves for four consecutive seasons beginning in 2011. He later won a World Series championship with the Boston Red Sox in 2018 and has also pitched for the Padres, Cubs, White Sox, Dodgers, Phillies, Orioles, Astros and Mets.

The move comes as Tampa Bay attempts to solidify its bullpen for a postseason push. Despite owning the American League’s best record at 34-17, the Rays entered Tuesday ranked 21st in MLB with a 4.40 bullpen ERA. Team officials hope Kimbrel can provide stability and late-inning depth as the season progresses.

More: https://www.sportingnews.com/us/mlb/atlanta-braves/news/atlanta-braves-could-send-three-dominant-relievers-all-star/1297da042f915c45161d9dbe