Braves Closer Raisel Iglesias Running Out of Time to Improve Performance
The Atlanta Braves are facing a familiar and frustrating issue: a struggling bullpen. While defensive lapses and high strikeout rates are problematic, nothing stings more than watching late leads slip away because of unreliable relief pitching. Once again, closer Raisel Iglesias is a major concern.
Despite being a seasoned veteran, Iglesias has yet to inspire the confidence fans once had during the Craig Kimbrel era. At 35, Iglesias isn’t intimidating hitters with velocity, and his numbers reflect the drop in performance. So far this season, he’s posted a 2-2 record with a 5.40 ERA over 15 outings. Although he’s tallied six saves, he’s already blown at least two, and is averaging a home run allowed per save. His ERA+ sits at a career-worst 78, and while his control hasn’t completely unraveled, his ERA is nearly three times higher than last year’s.
Atlanta’s offense is starting to find its rhythm, but if the team can’t rely on its closer, it could spell trouble—not just for a championship run, but even for making the playoffs. Unless Iglesias improves soon, the Braves might be forced to seek a replacement.
Iglesias Must Step Up or Risk Losing the Closer Role
It’s alarming that Iglesias has only recorded saves in about a third of the Braves’ wins. While the closer role may be overvalued in today’s game, it’s still crucial for morale—fans expect wins when their closer takes the mound. Unfortunately, Iglesias hasn’t delivered that sense of security.
Speaking from experience as a former pitcher, it’s difficult to watch a player lose their edge. While Iglesias might not be completely lost, trust in him is eroding fast. His recent outing in a wild extra-inning win over the Diamondbacks did little to inspire faith—his vulnerabilities were on full display.
At 35, Iglesias is battling both declining physical tools and rising expectations. He’s competing against younger, faster hitters while aging out of his prime. While there’s always hope for a turnaround, the Braves cannot afford for him to be the reason they fall short this season.
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