Braves Secure Pierce Johnson in Two-Year Deal as Offseason Action Begins
ArrayThe Atlanta Braves kicked off their offseason activities by re-signing reliever Pierce Johnson to a $14.25 million, two-year contract, marking a pivotal move for the reigning team with the best regular-season record in baseball.
Johnson, known for his hard-throwing capabilities out of the bullpen, initially came to the Braves from the Colorado Rockies.
He is set to earn $7 million per season for the next two years, with an added club option for 2026 worth $7 million, accompanied by a $250,000 buyout.
The 32-year-old right-hander experienced a shift in his role during his time with the Rockies, losing the closer’s position. However, Johnson’s season took a remarkable turn after joining the Braves in a trade on July 24.
In 24 appearances for the Braves, Johnson demonstrated his prowess by allowing just two earned runs in 23 2/3 innings, resulting in a minuscule 0.76 ERA.
He amassed an impressive 32 strikeouts and only five walks during this period. His contributions extended beyond the regular season, as he took on a crucial setup role alongside A.J. Minter to support closer Raisel Iglesias.
In the National League Division Series, Johnson put up three scoreless appearances. Despite Johnson’s remarkable performance, the Braves, with 104 wins, were eliminated by the Philadelphia Phillies in four games, marking the second consecutive year of disappointment.
Iglesias, who clinched 33 saves and maintained a 2.75 ERA, remains under contract for two more seasons. On the other hand, Minter, who recorded ten saves with a 3.76 ERA, is entering his final season of arbitration.
The Braves are also hopeful for the return of left-handed pitcher Tyler Matzek, who sat out the entire previous season due to Tommy John surgery.
The rest of the bullpen is in a state of transition. The Braves have a five-day window following the conclusion of the World Series to decide on club options for right-handed pitchers Kirby Yates, Collin McHugh, and Brad Hand. Each comes with varying buyout amounts.
Joe Jimenez is set to become a free agent unless a new deal with the Braves is reached, while Dylan Lee, Nick Anderson, and Michael Tonkin are currently under team control.
At 40 years old, Jesse Chavez remains an option for the Braves. He has delivered impactful performances during multiple stints with the team.
However, the Braves might consider removing him from the 40-man roster with the possibility of re-signing him under a minor league contract.
Pierce Johnson, who has displayed a commitment to community involvement by pledging 1% of his salary to the Atlanta Braves Foundation, brings a wealth of experience from his six seasons in the major leagues, having previously played for San Francisco, San Diego, and the Chicago Cubs. His career record is 12-15 with a 4.04 ERA and 13 saves.
The Atlanta Braves kicked off their offseason activities by re-signing reliever Pierce Johnson to a $14.25 million, two-year contract, marking a pivotal move for the reigning team with the best regular-season record in baseball.
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Johnson, known for his hard-throwing capabilities out of the bullpen, initially came to the Braves from the Colorado Rockies.
He is set to earn $7 million per season for the next two years, with an added club option for 2026 worth $7 million, accompanied by a $250,000 buyout.
The 32-year-old right-hander experienced a shift in his role during his time with the Rockies, losing the closer’s position. However, Johnson’s season took a remarkable turn after joining the Braves in a trade on July 24.
In 24 appearances for the Braves, Johnson demonstrated his prowess by allowing just two earned runs in 23 2/3 innings, resulting in a minuscule 0.76 ERA.
He amassed an impressive 32 strikeouts and only five walks during this period. His contributions extended beyond the regular season, as he took on a crucial setup role alongside A.J. Minter to support closer Raisel Iglesias.
In the National League Division Series, Johnson put up three scoreless appearances. Despite Johnson’s remarkable performance, the Braves, with 104 wins, were eliminated by the Philadelphia Phillies in four games, marking the second consecutive year of disappointment.
Iglesias, who clinched 33 saves and maintained a 2.75 ERA, remains under contract for two more seasons. On the other hand, Minter, who recorded ten saves with a 3.76 ERA, is entering his final season of arbitration.
The Braves are also hopeful for the return of left-handed pitcher Tyler Matzek, who sat out the entire previous season due to Tommy John surgery.
The rest of the bullpen is in a state of transition. The Braves have a five-day window following the conclusion of the World Series to decide on club options for right-handed pitchers Kirby Yates, Collin McHugh, and Brad Hand. Each comes with varying buyout amounts.
Joe Jimenez is set to become a free agent unless a new deal with the Braves is reached, while Dylan Lee, Nick Anderson, and Michael Tonkin are currently under team control.
At 40 years old, Jesse Chavez remains an option for the Braves. He has delivered impactful performances during multiple stints with the team.
However, the Braves might consider removing him from the 40-man roster with the possibility of re-signing him under a minor league contract.
Pierce Johnson, who has displayed a commitment to community involvement by pledging 1% of his salary to the Atlanta Braves Foundation, brings a wealth of experience from his six seasons in the major leagues, having previously played for San Francisco, San Diego, and the Chicago Cubs. His career record is 12-15 with a 4.04 ERA and 13 saves.
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