(ATLANTA) — In a free agency stunner that defied logic and economics, veteran closer Raisel Iglesias has officially re-signed with the Atlanta Braves on a one-year, $16 million contract. This move shocked the MLB world because, according to multiple sources, Iglesias turned down competing, multi-year offers from the World Series contender Los Angeles Dodgers and the high-spending Toronto Blue Jays—deals that offered financial security beyond 2026.
The reason behind the decision, however, has left the baseball community emotional, highlighting a deeper connection to the organization than money alone.
“He Wanted to Be Here”: A Choice Based on Connection
Braves President of Baseball Operations, Alex Anthopoulos (AA), confirmed the sentiment that drove the decision, telling reporters that securing the deal was easier than anticipated.
“He wanted to be here. His first choice was to be back in Atlanta. I’m glad we were able to get it done,” Anthopoulos stated, confirming the desire of the 35-year-old right-hander.
Iglesias, who has spent the most successful stretch of his 11-year career in Atlanta (2.35 ERA since 2022 acquisition), chose stability and emotional comfort over the potential for a larger, multi-year guarantee elsewhere. The $16 million he accepted is the same figure he earned last season, and represents a premium for a one-year deal, but it avoids the long-term risk that teams like the Dodgers and Blue Jays were reportedly willing to take.
For Iglesias, a native of Cuba, the established routine, the familiar clubhouse, and the trust placed in him by the Braves organization—despite an inconsistent first half of 2025—were invaluable assets that no competing offer could truly match.
The Post-Season Confidence Boost
The decision to bring back Iglesias came after his spectacular rebound from a rocky start in 2025. After an uneven first half (4.42 ERA), Iglesias finished the season with authority, posting a dominant 1.76 ERA in the second half and successfully converting his final 18 save opportunities—the longest streak to close the season in the majors.
The Braves’ choice to re-sign him, despite the high $16 million price tag, is a clear vote of confidence in his ability to anchor the bullpen. But Iglesias’s choice to return at that exact price, rejecting multi-year security from contenders, is a profound statement on his personal commitment to the Braves.
This move ensures the Braves retain one of the five active pitchers with over 250 career saves, providing immediate stability for a team focused on returning to the postseason in 2026.
