Braves’ Confidence in Raisel Iglesias Yields Impressive Results
The Atlanta Braves have found a reliable anchor in their bullpen, as closer Raisel Iglesias continues to shine since the trade deadline. With unwavering faith in his abilities, the Braves’ decision to retain Iglesias has proven to be a masterstroke.
Iglesias’ Stellar Performance
On Monday night, Iglesias notched his 25th save of the season, helping the Braves secure a 4-1 victory over the Chicago Cubs in the first game of a three-game series. This latest achievement further solidified his standing, bringing his post-deadline ERA down to an astonishing 0.53. In this stretch, Iglesias has allowed just a single earned run and remarkably no home runs, showcasing the dominance that made him a coveted asset.
Iglesias’ resurgence has left fans and analysts alike pondering the rationale behind the Braves’ decision to hold onto him. Leading up to the deadline, he had shown signs of returning to form, making the prospect of a trade more enticing. However, general manager Alex Anthopoulos had a clear vision.
Trade Deadline Strategy
In the lead-up to the trade deadline, the Braves received a flurry of inquiries about Iglesias. Yet, Anthopoulos noted that the offers falling on the table were primarily for salary relief, rather than the kind of value the Braves were seeking.
“We were only going to move players at the deadline if we received a return that could help us in the future,” Anthopoulos stated prior to Monday’s game. His commitment to building a sustainable roster was evident as he reiterated that he would only consider trades that could provide long-term benefits rather than short-term financial relief.
When asked if he regretted not moving Iglesias before the deadline, Anthopoulos remained firm. “Teams weren’t willing to give us anything more than salary relief,” he reaffirmed. His focus was on securing prospects that could contribute down the line, rather than simply shedding payroll.
Looking Ahead
The Braves are now reaping the rewards of their decision to keep Iglesias, as he continues to be a formidable presence on the mound. His ability to close out games effectively has been integral to the Braves’ success as they push toward the postseason.
With Iglesias at the helm of the bullpen, the Braves appear poised for a deep run, bolstered by a closer in peak form and a front office willing to prioritize future success over immediate gains.
