What Happened to Craig Michael Kimbrel?

Craig Michael Kimbrel's journey in Major League Baseball has been a remarkable one, characterized by periods of unparalleled dominance as a closer followed by a more recent phase of navigating various teams and roles. Drafted by the Atlanta Braves in the third round of the 2008 MLB Draft, Kimbrel quickly ascended through the minor leagues, making his MLB debut in 2010. He cemented his status as a premier closer in 2011, setting an MLB rookie record with 46 saves and unanimously winning the National League Rookie of the Year award. His early career with the Braves saw him lead the NL in saves for four consecutive seasons (2011-2014) and earn multiple All-Star selections, establishing his signature intimidating stance and overpowering fastball. He also became the youngest pitcher to reach 150 saves and the fastest to 400 strikeouts.

After being traded from the Braves in 2015, Kimbrel continued his success with the San Diego Padres and Boston Red Sox, where he won a World Series in 2018. He reached 300 career saves in 2018, becoming the youngest pitcher in MLB history to achieve this milestone. His career then saw him move through the Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, and Los Angeles Dodgers, maintaining a high level of performance, including pitching in a combined no-hitter in 2021. In 2023, while with the Philadelphia Phillies, Kimbrel recorded his 400th career save, becoming the eighth major league pitcher to do so.

However, the 2024 season marked a significant downturn for Kimbrel. He signed a one-year, $13 million deal with the Baltimore Orioles, intending to be their closer. Despite a strong first half, converting 23 of 27 save opportunities by early July, his performance faltered dramatically in the second half, culminating in an 11.50 ERA in his final 19 appearances and a season ERA of 5.33. He was designated for assignment by the Orioles on September 18, 2024, after allowing six runs in an outing, and was subsequently released on September 24.

The 2025 season saw Kimbrel attempting to find his footing. He signed a minor league contract to return to the Atlanta Braves in March 2025, making a brief major league appearance before being designated for assignment again in June. He then signed a minor league deal with the Texas Rangers in June 2025, playing for their Triple-A affiliate, the Round Rock Express. In August 2025, he signed a major league contract with the Houston Astros, appearing in 13 games with a 2.45 ERA, though without recording a save as the Astros utilized other closers. He elected free agency in November 2025.

As of 2026, Kimbrel's career continues. On January 24, 2026, he signed a minor league contract with the New York Mets, receiving an invitation to spring training. Although he did not make the Opening Day roster and was assigned to Triple-A Syracuse, he agreed to pass on his opt-out opportunity. On April 11, 2026, the Mets selected Kimbrel's contract, adding him to their active roster, making it his 10th major league team. He made his Mets debut on the same day, pitching a scoreless seventh inning against the Athletics, striking out two. At 37 years old, Kimbrel is looking to provide experienced relief to the Mets' bullpen, though he is not expected to be in a closer role with Devin Williams on the team.