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Braves Reliever Joe Jiménez to Miss 8-12 Months After Knee Surgery, Impacting Offseason Plans

Akhilendra Sahu -

The Atlanta Braves are facing a significant blow to their bullpen as setup reliever Joe Jiménez will miss 8 to 12 months following knee surgery. The 30-year-old underwent the procedure on October 29 to repair cartilage in his left knee, as reported by David O'Brien of The Athletic.

Jiménez, who had a standout 2024 season, was one of the Braves' most reliable relievers. In 68 2/3 innings, he posted a 2.62 ERA and struck out 82 batters. Notably, he also stepped in as the backup closer when Raisel Iglesias was unavailable, securing seven saves for Atlanta. His contributions played a vital role in the Braves' bullpen dominance during the season.

Jiménez's Injury Creates Immediate Need for Atlanta’s Bullpen

Jiménez’s recovery timeline now raises questions about his availability for the 2025 season, leaving the Braves without one of their most consistent arms. This injury also creates an urgent offseason need for the club to address its bullpen depth. In a series of moves made just before Jiménez’s surgery, the Braves traded Jorge Soler and the remaining $26 million on his contract to the Los Angeles Angels, signaling a shift in their payroll strategy.

Jiménez, who was acquired from the Detroit Tigers in December 2022, signed a three-year, $26 million extension after a solid 2023 campaign in which he recorded a 3.04 ERA and 73 strikeouts in 56 1/3 innings. He has $18 million remaining on the final two years of that deal, but now the Braves face uncertainty about his status in 2025.

Possible Internal and External Bullpen Replacements for Jiménez

With Jiménez sidelined, the Braves will likely need to explore internal options to fill the gap or turn to the free-agent market for potential reinforcements. Some candidates already within the organization include:

  • Pierce Johnson (3.67 ERA, 67 strikeouts in 56 1/3 innings)
  • Dylan Lee (2.11 ERA, 76 strikeouts in 59 2/3 innings)
  • Grant Holmes (3.56 ERA, 70 strikeouts in 68 1/3 innings)
  • Daysbel Hernández (2.50 ERA, 26 strikeouts in 18 innings)

However, the Braves might also look to sign one of several strong right-handed relievers available in free agency. Top options include:

  • Clay Holmes (3.14 ERA, 68 strikeouts in 63 innings for the Yankees)
  • Tanner Scott (2.73 ERA, 31 strikeouts in 26 1/3 innings for the Padres)
  • Blake Treinen (1.93 ERA, 56 strikeouts in 46 2/3 innings for the Dodgers)
  • Jeff Hoffman (2.17 ERA, 89 strikeouts in 66 1/3 innings for the Phillies)
  • Carlos Estévez (2.45 ERA, 50 strikeouts in 55 innings for the Angels)

Veteran closers Aroldis Chapman (3.79 ERA, 98 strikeouts in 61 2/3 innings) and Kenley Jansen (3.29 ERA, 62 strikeouts in 54 2/3 innings) could also be intriguing targets for Braves GM Alex Anthopoulos as the team looks to bolster its bullpen depth ahead of the 2025 season.

A Tough Blow for Braves’ Bullpen Depth

Jiménez’s injury leaves a significant gap in Atlanta’s already strong bullpen, which was a key factor in the Braves’ success last season. His absence forces the team to explore options, both internally and on the open market, as they aim to remain competitive in the National League. With high expectations for the 2025 season, finding a suitable replacement for Jiménez will be a priority for the front office this winter.

As the Braves shift focus to their offseason plans, the future of their bullpen now hinges on their ability to recover from this unexpected setback.