Braves Eye Fairbanks to Fill Closer Role

The Atlanta Braves are poised for an offseason refresh, focusing on a singular goal: reclaiming their status as a championship contender.

At the forefront of this mission is the pressing need to secure a new closer, especially with Raisel Iglesias entering free agency. The Braves have relied heavily on Iglesias, who racked up 96 saves over the past three seasons, but his departure leaves a significant gap in the ninth inning.

Looking Beyond Internal Options

In the quest to fill this void, some analysts, including Kerry Miller, suggest that the Braves should look beyond their current roster.

Instead of opting for an in-house solution, a trade for Tampa Bay Rays reliever Pete Fairbanks could be the strategic move. Fairbanks represents a promising option, boasting a powerful arm and a track record of success that could bolster the Braves’ bullpen.

Fairbanks’ Impact on the Bullpen

While Iglesias has been a cornerstone of Atlanta’s late-inning strategy, his absence raises concerns about the team’s ability to close out games effectively.

Fairbanks, known for his electric fastball and ability to handle high-pressure situations, could seamlessly transition into the closer role. His performance with the Rays has shown he possesses the necessary skill set to thrive in a prominent position within a contending team’s bullpen.

The Future After Iglesias

The Braves are at a crossroads, and how they address their closing situation will significantly impact their trajectory heading into the next season.

If they can secure Fairbanks, they not only fill the immediate need for a closer but also send a strong message about their commitment to contending in the highly competitive National League.

As the offseason unfolds, the Braves’ pursuit of Fairbanks could be a pivotal move in their quest to remain a powerhouse in Major League Baseball.