The Atlanta Braves have successfully secured right-handed pitcher Tyler Kinley for another year, confirming his return to the team. This agreement highlights the club's confidence in Kinley's capabilities, especially following his notable performance improvement after his mid-season trade last year.
Kinley's new contract is valued at $3 million for the upcoming season. Additionally, the Braves retain a club option for 2027, priced at $5.5 million, which includes a $1.25 million buyout clause. This structured deal provides both the player and the team with future flexibility.
A seasoned veteran in Major League Baseball, the 34-year-old Kinley brings eight years of experience to the Braves, having participated in 342 games with a career ERA of 4.75. His journey in MLB began in 2018, playing for both the Minnesota Twins and the Miami Marlins during his rookie campaign. He then spent a significant portion of his career with the Colorado Rockies, making 253 appearances for the organization starting in 2020.
During the previous season, Kinley recorded a 5.66 ERA and a 1.448 WHIP across 49 games while with the Rockies. However, a pivotal shift occurred in late July when he was traded to the Atlanta Braves. This move proved to be highly beneficial for the pitcher.
His performance saw a dramatic turnaround once he began playing outside the hitter-friendly confines of Coors Field. With the Braves, Kinley posted an impressive 0.72 ERA and a 0.680 WHIP over 24 games, showcasing his potential when not affected by the unique environmental factors of his former home stadium.
The re-signing of Tyler Kinley signifies a strategic move for the Atlanta Braves, reinforcing their pitching roster with a player who demonstrated exceptional effectiveness in a new environment. His return is anticipated to strengthen the team's bullpen and contribute significantly to their performance in the upcoming season.