Braves Call Up 41-Year-Old Reliever Amid Bullpen Struggles

ATLANTA, Ga. — The Atlanta Braves have called up veteran reliever Jesse Chavez from Triple-A Gwinnett as they seek to stabilize their struggling bullpen following a challenging start to the 2025 season. Chavez, 41, marks the beginning of his 18th season in Major League Baseball, a career that has spanned nine teams.

Chavez’s return comes after the Braves designated fellow right-hander Hector Neris for assignment following a rough performance in which he allowed five runs in just over one inning during the team’s opening series against the San Diego Padres.

The Braves announced the recall of Chavez on Monday afternoon, hoping his familiarity with the team can help turn the tide after beginning the season 0-4. Chavez previously contributed to the Braves’ 2021 World Series championship campaign and returns to a club that released him during spring training after he struggled with the Texas Rangers.

“We know what Jesse can do, and he has proven himself here,” Braves General Manager Alex Anthopoulos said. “He adds experience and stability, especially given the situation we’re currently facing in the bullpen.”

Chavez posted a 3.13 ERA in 46 appearances last season and was the oldest player in the National League. This year, he will take on the mantle as the oldest player in MLB, surpassing Neris, who is 36 years old. Chavez’s career record stands at 51-65 with a 4.24 ERA over 653 games, including 85 starts since his debut in 2008.

Once Chavez joined the Braves in 2021, he thrived, turning his performance around significantly compared to his prior stints with other teams. “There’s something about the Braves that seems to bring out the best in Jesse,” a team source shared.

Meanwhile, the Braves’ bullpen has struggled early; they lost three of their first four games, leading management to seek experienced help in Chavez. In his one game with Triple-A Gwinnett prior to the call-up, Chavez faced minimal action, but the Braves’ front office expressed confidence in his ability to regain form.

Neris, on the other hand, who was expected to bolster the bullpen this season, faltered dramatically in his first two appearances after signing with Atlanta. He entered with a lead but left with a blown save after failing to record an out in the team’s opener.

“We thought it could work out for Hector, but unfortunately it didn’t play out that way,” Anthopoulos noted. “We’re in a tough spot, and we need to make adjustments quickly.”

Although Chavez’s call-up may hold potential promise, observations indicate the Braves are still grappling with the need to fortify their pitching staff amidst a rough start to the season.