One day after bringing back Craig Kimbrel, perhaps the greatest closer in franchise history, the struggling Atlanta Braves have designated the veteran reliever for assignment. The club recalled left-hander Austin Cox in a corresponding move.

Kimbrel spent the 2024 season with the Orioles after signing a one-year, $13 million deal, going 7-5 with a 5.33 ERA and 23 saves as the replacement for injured closer Félix Bautista before being cut in September.

Looking at the stats, there's logic to the Atlanta Braves move, but everyone was still caught off guard by the decision