ATLANTA, GA - JUNE 26: Atlanta Braves relief pitcher Jesse Chavez (60) in the sixth inning of the MLB game between the Los Angeles Dodgers and Atlanta Braves on June 26, 2022, at Truist Park in Atlanta, GA. (Photo by John Adams/Icon Sportswire)
Despite their busy summer, the Braves have failed to make the move that nearly every Braves fan has been waiting for: re-signing Jesse Chavez.
Some had speculated that the 40-year-old righty would be retiring because he is still available as a free agent, but Chavez stated on MLB Network Radio that he intends to play one more season, dispelling that theory.
Regarding the 2024 season, Chavez said to the network, “I think this is probably gonna be it.” He expressed his wish to leave baseball in the same condition that he entered it: in good health. The 16-year veteran stated that after giving it his all in the forthcoming season, he intends to pursue a career in teaching.
Chavez joined the Braves for the first time in 2010 and left for the last season, naturally. He has spent four seasons with the team.
Even though Braves fans would want to see Uncle Jesse back with the team, Chavez will still need to find a team to play for in 2024. However, the team may not have enough room for him.
Even though the two parties haven’t reached an agreement yet, it’s hardly shocking given the condition of the Braves bullpen.
Six players are locks for the eight bullpen spots: Reynaldo Lopez, Aaron Bummer, Joe Jimenez, Pierce Johnson, A.J. Minter, and Raisel Iglesias. Although there’s a slim chance Lopez makes it into the rotation, these relievers are all guaranteed millions, have no options, and are probably the cornerstones of the pen.
