Braves take flier on bullpen arm Gillispie

November 30th, 2024

ATLANTA -- will come to Spring Training with a chance to fill one of the Braves’ bullpen voids.

The Braves announced they signed Gillispie to a one-year, non-guaranteed contract on Friday night. The financial figures weren’t revealed. With this arrangement, the 27-year-old pitcher has been given a spot on Atlanta’s 40-man roster. But he will be owed just a portion of his contract if released before the end of Spring Training.

Gillispie made his MLB debut on Aug. 4 against the Orioles, but he spent most of this season in Cleveland’s Minor League system. He allowed four hits and two earned runs in eight innings over three appearances before being sent back down. He posted a 4.05 ERA in 27 appearances (15 starts) for Triple-A Columbus this year.

With Joe Jiménez expected to miss most or all of the 2025 season, closer Raisel Iglesias, Pierce Johnson, Aaron Bummer, Daysbel Hernandez, Grant Holmes and Dylan Lee are currently Atlanta’s only projected bullpen members. Gillispie's experience as a starter could make him a long relief candidate.