Breaking News: Veteran Star Craig Kimbrel Leaves Braves With a Heavy Heart, Inks Deal With Chicago Cubs in Stunning MLB Move
In one of the most emotionally charged and surprising developments of the MLB offseason, veteran relief pitcher Craig Kimbrel, long associated with his excellence on the mound and fierce competitiveness, has officially parted ways with the Atlanta Braves, a franchise that helped shape his early career, and signed with the Chicago Cubs. The announcement has stirred the baseball world, with fans and analysts alike reacting to the major shift that sees a seasoned and sensational closer change uniforms once again.
Kimbrel’s decision to join the Cubs comes after long contemplation and emotional weight, particularly due to his deep roots in Atlanta, where he first rose to prominence. The right-handed flamethrower spent the formative years of his career with the Braves, becoming not just a fan favorite but one of the most dominant closers in the league during his time there. From 2010 to 2014, Kimbrel etched his name into Braves history, earning multiple All-Star selections and establishing himself as a nearly untouchable ninth-inning force.
Though Kimbrel has played for several teams since his initial Braves stint—including the Padres, Red Sox, Cubs, White Sox, Dodgers, and Phillies—his connection to Atlanta remained deeply personal. That’s what made his recent statement about leaving the team all the more powerful. Speaking to media, Kimbrel acknowledged that it wasn’t an easy decision. “Atlanta is where I became the pitcher I am today. It’s where my MLB journey started, and I’ll always be grateful to the Braves organization and the fans who supported me through everything,” he said. “But as tough as it is to say goodbye, I know it’s time for a new chapter.”
That new chapter brings him back to a city and a team he once called home: the Chicago Cubs. Kimbrel previously pitched for the Cubs from 2019 to 2021. Although his early days in Chicago were marred by injury and inconsistency, he bounced back in spectacular fashion in 2021, putting up All-Star numbers and recapturing his elite closer form. His return to Wrigley Field now, several years later, signals both unfinished business and a sense of familiarity with the organization and its fanbase.
Sources close to the negotiation reveal that the Cubs were aggressively pursuing Kimbrel in the offseason, aiming to shore up their bullpen with proven talent. The Cubs front office is making a concerted effort to return to contention, and Kimbrel’s track record of postseason experience, leadership, and high-leverage dominance made him a top target. His signing is reportedly a two-year deal worth around $18 million, with performance incentives that could increase its total value. The contract underscores the Cubs’ belief that Kimbrel can once again be a key pillar in their relief corps.
Cubs President of Baseball Operations Jed Hoyer spoke glowingly about the acquisition. “We know exactly what Craig brings to the table—not just as a dominant closer, but as a competitor who knows what it takes to win. He’s been through battles, and that experience is invaluable as we shape this roster to compete at the highest level,” Hoyer said.
From a competitive standpoint, this signing could significantly bolster the Cubs’ chances in the National League. The team has struggled to find consistency in its bullpen over recent seasons, and bringing back a reliever of Kimbrel’s caliber fills a vital gap. While the Cubs do have some promising young arms, there’s no substitute for the knowledge and confidence that a seasoned veteran can bring to tight, late-game situations.
But this move also resonates on a deeper level. For Kimbrel, it’s not just a baseball decision—it’s a personal mission. Returning to Chicago gives him an opportunity to leave a different kind of legacy, especially given how his first stint ended with a mid-season trade to the crosstown White Sox. Now, he has a chance to rewrite his Cubs story, helping guide a new wave of players and potentially mentoring younger pitchers both on and off the mound.
As for Braves fans, many have expressed sadness and gratitude in equal measure. Though his time with the team ended years ago, Kimbrel has always been closely associated with Atlanta’s golden era of young pitching talent. His impact, both statistically and culturally, left an indelible mark on the franchise. Some fans had held out hope for a reunion, especially considering the Braves’ recent bullpen struggles, but the Cubs’ urgency and familiarity with the pitcher helped seal the deal.
The timing of the announcement, coming early in the offseason, suggests that Kimbrel wanted to settle into his next phase without lingering uncertainty. He made it clear in his press availability that he’s not merely chasing a paycheck or a retirement stint—he’s motivated to compete, and more importantly, to win. “I feel good. My arm feels great. I’m excited to help this team any way I can. And I believe we can do something special here,” he said of his return to Chicago.
In the grand picture, this move symbolizes more than just a player changing teams. It represents the emotional journey of a professional athlete—loyalty, growth, departures, and homecomings. Craig Kimbrel, with his trademark fastball and fierce glare, is still ready to compete. And as he prepares to don a Cubs jersey once again, fans from Chicago to Atlanta and beyond will be watching to see just how much more history he can write.