The Atlanta Braves are giving a familiar name another shot but in a different role. Former prospect Dylan Dodd is being called up to help out of the bullpen during the team’s series against the Boston Red Sox. While fans may be hoping for a Craig Kimbrel reunion, that won’t be happening just yet. Instead, the Braves are testing Dodd, a former left-handed starter, as a one-inning reliever following his recent transition to the bullpen.
According to David O’Brien of The Athletic, this move is likely a short-term fix until Spencer Strider returns, potentially in next week’s series against the Nationals. Dodd’s recall coincides with Bryce Elder being sent back to Triple-A Gwinnett an expected move since Elder just pitched, and the Braves need an extra arm in the bullpen.
Though fans are eager to see Kimbrel back in a Braves uniform, overhauling the bullpen is going to be a gradual process. Raisel Iglesias remains locked in as the closer due to his contract and performance history, so finding consistent support around him is key. That’s where Dodd comes in his success in short outings could give Atlanta much-needed stability.
There’s a reason the Braves have kept Dodd in the organization, and this role change might reveal his true value. As the team looks to climb above .500, even incremental bullpen improvements could make a big difference.
While Iglesias has faced challenges, the rest of the bullpen has been solid just not consistently at the same time. With left-handers Dylan Lee and Pierce Johnson carrying heavier workloads, and Aaron Bummer struggling, adding another southpaw like Dodd could help spread the burden.
It’s still early in the season, and the Braves are clearly using this time to evaluate what they have internally before pursuing major trades. If they’re in playoff contention come summer, GM Alex Anthopoulos could make strategic moves perhaps even in the bullpen.
For now, the team is taking a measured approach. Dodd’s performance in this new role could influence bigger decisions down the line, and the Braves are ready to see what he can bring to the table.
