The Atlanta Braves are continuing to reshape their bullpen this offseason by adding Reynaldo Lopez on a three-year deal worth $26 million. The agreement also includes an $8 million club option for 2027 with a $4 million buyout.
Lopez spent time with the White Sox, Angels, and Guardians in 2023, participating in 68 games and posting a 3.27 ERA and a 3.91 FIP over 66 innings. He is a hard thrower, achieving a career-best strikeout rate of more than 11 per nine innings last season.
In 2024, Lopez will earn $4 million, followed by $11 million in each of the 2025 and 2026 seasons.
While the Braves are in search of a starter, they have quietly strengthened their bullpen behind closer Raisel Iglesias and setup man A.J. Minter. The Braves kicked off the offseason by acquiring Jimenez and Pierce Johnson, then traded for lefty Aaron Bummer. The team is also hopeful of bringing back Taylor Matzek for the 2024 campaign, as he missed the 2023 season recovering from Tommy John surgery.
There’s also a possibility that Lopez could contribute to the rotation. According to agent Justin Toscano, Lopez is preparing to serve as an early pitcher this winter, with plans to expand his role during spring training.
