The Atlanta Braves have acquired right-handed reliever Tyler Kinley from the Colorado Rockies, according to MLB.com's Mark Feinsand. The Braves are sending a prospect to the Rockies in exchange for Kinley.
Kinley, 34, is in the final year of his contract, earning $3 million, with a $5 million club option for 2026. While his season ERA stands at 5.66, his underlying metrics like FIP (4.14) and SIERA (4.15) suggest he's performed better than that number indicates. Notably, he's been on a hot streak lately, boasting a 2.37 ERA with a high strikeout rate (31.1%) over his last 19 innings.
Despite a somewhat elevated walk rate this season, Kinley excels at limiting hard contact and possesses a strong swinging-strike rate (14%). His fastball averages 95.2 mph, adding another weapon to the Braves' bullpen.
The move comes as a bit of a surprise, given the Braves' current record (45-61) and injury woes. However, Kinley provides valuable depth to their relief corps and offers potential upside. His 2026 club option, with a $750K buyout, presents an affordable decision for Atlanta in the offseason.
This acquisition suggests the Braves are already looking ahead to 2026, with Raisel Iglesias, Rafael Montero, and Pierce Johnson potentially hitting free agency. Kinley offers a possible replacement or valuable addition to the bullpen next season.
What to expect from Kinley?
While his overall numbers this season might not jump off the page, Kinley's recent performance and underlying metrics paint a picture of a potentially dominant reliever. If the Braves can help him refine his control and capitalize on his strengths, he could become a key contributor to their bullpen.
The Prospect Heading to Colorado
Details on the prospect being sent to the Rockies are still emerging, but this trade represents a strategic move for both teams. The Rockies gain a future asset, while the Braves add a veteran arm with the potential to impact their bullpen both this season and beyond.