Braves make another addition to 'pen, reuniting with Kinley

ATLANTA -- The Braves’ decision to decline Tyler Kinley’s $5.5 million option in November proved to be a sound financial decision.

Kinley reunited with the Braves on Saturday when he agreed to a one-year, $4.25 million deal. The right-handed reliever will draw a $3 million salary in 2026; his $5.5 million option for 2027 includes a $1.25 million buyout.

The Braves raised some eyebrows when they opted to decline Kinley’s option despite the fact that he was one of their top relievers after being acquired from the Rockies in late July. They also declined Pierce Johnson’s $7 million option in November.

Some of the reallocated dollars helped the team strengthen its bullpen by signing two proven closers, Raisel Iglesias and Robert Suarez, this winter. But the value of the financial decision has now increased with Kinley’s decision to return at a reduced rate.

Kinley became the latest pitcher to experience success after leaving the challenging environment of Coors Field.

Though the Braves looked like obvious sellers, they acquired the 34-year-old Kinley from Colorado at the 2025 Trade Deadline. He recorded a 5.66 ERA in 49 appearances for the Rockies prior to the trade, and a 0.72 ERA (with a 2.74 FIP) over the 24 appearances he made for Atlanta.

Iglesias and Suarez will be Atlanta’s top two options out of the bullpen. If Kinley extends last year’s late-season success, he and left-hander Dylan Lee could serve as the top two setup options. The unpredictable Daysbel Hernández could further strengthen the back end of the bullpen if he solves his command issues.