Jesse Chavez Returns to Braves; Kimbrel Eyes Comeback in Major Leagues

Atlanta, GA – The Atlanta Braves have officially added right-handed pitcher Jesse Chavez to their Major League roster as of April 23, 2025. The team made this move by transferring infielder Nacho Alvarez Jr. to the 60-day injured list and optioning right-hander Nathan Wiles to Triple-A Gwinnett.

This marks the second time this season that the Braves have re-signed Chavez, who was previously released by the Texas Rangers at the end of Spring Training. Chavez made one appearance against the Los Angeles Dodgers before being designated for assignment. He opted for free agency and shortly returned on another minor league contract.

In that single game against the Dodgers on March 31, Chavez faced challenges, giving up two hits and two walks while allowing two runs in two innings. However, he has performed well in Triple-A, allowing just one unearned run on two hits and no walks over five appearances, striking out ten batters in five innings.

The Braves’ bullpen has struggled, particularly in the eighth and ninth innings during a recent series against the St. Louis Cardinals, where they allowed nine total runs across these two innings. Wiles, making his Major League debut, contributed to this struggle by giving up three runs in the ninth inning of Tuesday night’s game.

Alvarez has not played since suffering a wrist injury during Spring Training. He was placed on the 10-day injured list ahead of the regular season and had faced difficulty at the plate last season, going 3-for-30 before returning to Triple-A.

In addition, former closer Craig Kimbrel, now 36, is looking to revive his career with the Braves after struggling in recent seasons. Kimbrel, a previous standout who earned NL Rookie of the Year honors from 2010 to 2014, is currently with Triple-A Gwinnett. His recent performance includes five straight hitless frames, suggesting he may soon return to the Major Leagues.

The Braves are hopeful that Kimbrel can once again contribute at the big-league level. His experience and skills remain valuable assets as the team faces challenges in their bullpen.