That was quick.
The Atlanta Braves have designated reliever Craig Kimbrel for assignment one day after the Braves legend made his first appearance for the club since 2014. Austin Cox was called-up as the corresponding roster move.
The #Braves today recalled LHP Austin Cox to Atlanta and designated RHP Craig Kimbrel for assignment.
— Atlanta Braves (@Braves) June 7, 2025
Kimbrel tossed a scoreless inning in last night’s loss – striking out one, allowing one hit and one walk while picking off a runner.
Cox was pitching at Triple-A for the Braves with pedestrian numbers. He made his debut for the Kansas City Royals in 2023 appearing in 24 games. Prior to pitching in Gwinnett this season, he appeared 11 time for the Royals Triple-A affiliate.
Kimbrel, 37, had been signed to a minor league contract this offseason and was recalled yesterday. Atlanta designated him for assignment after one day.
If he is not claimed by another organization, it is at least plausible that he could return to the organization. That, however, seems doubtful based on this post by The Athletic’s David O’Brien:
Lasted one inning before DFA’d today. It was telling when Snitker said afterward, when I asked about Kimbrel’s inning, that he was glad he got through it but that luck was involved. And “we’ll see.” https://t.co/tXyo3DJ38I
— David O’Brien (@DOBrienATL) June 7, 2025
Kimbrel is fifth all-time in saves and the franchise leader for the Braves.