MLB’s hot stove season is underway for the 2025-2026 offseason. For the Atlanta Braves, this is an important offseason for a couple of reasons. First off being they hope to return to the MLB playoffs in 2026. Secondly, the front office has something to prove in being one of the better teams of executives in the league.
On Wednesday, the Braves kicked off what they hope to be a busy offseason by signing reliever Raisel Iglesias to a one-year, $16 million deal, the team announced via its social media page.
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Braves Sign Raisel Iglesias to $16 Million Deal
With the Braves signing Raisel Iglesias to a one-year, $16 million deal, that checks off one item on Atlanta’s wishlist, which is bullpen help. Iglesias had a tough start to 2025, but rebounded nicely and finished with a 3.21 ERA in 67.1 innings. The Braves battled several injuries on the pitching side of things in 2025, but Iglesias has proven to be a reliable reliever.
He has pitched in 55+ innings in three straight seasons. Iglesias had a stellar 2024 season campaign. In 69.1 innings last year, he posted a 1.95 ERA, 68 strikeouts, and 34 saves.
This is a great re-sign by Atlanta. However, they will need to add other arms in free agency, because last year proved they lack depth in the pitching staff. Raisel Iglesias had garnered trade buzz back in July, but Atlanta opted not to move him.
The 35-year-old reliever was a trade acquisition from the Los Angeles Angels back in 2022 and has had the most success in his 11-year career in the Braves uniform (2.35 ERA in 218.2 innings).
Iglesias made 70 appearances in 2025, which was a career high.
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What Else Do the Braves Need To Do In Free Agency?
The Braves are thought to need a few other things this offseason if they want to make a run at an NL East title. First, they need middle-infield help. Atlanta made a player-swap trade for Mauricio Dubon shortly after the Iglesias news.
They gave up shortstop Nick Allen, Â but the addition of Dubon certainly isn’t a needle mover.
Atlanta could also make a big signing in the starting pitcher market. It doesn’t have to be a $100 million+ signing; however, a durable starter, maybe like Merrill Kelly, could go a long way in ensuring the health of the rotation.
Marcell Ozuna is also currently a free agent, which Atlanta will have to decide on soon. If Ozuna signs elsewhere, that will emphasize the Braves’ DH need further.
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