Braves Unsung Hero: Closer Crowned Atlanta’s Secret Weapon
Both Ronald Acuña Jr. and Spencer Strider were sidelined with season-ending injuries early in the season, and over the next few months, several other All-Stars followed them onto the injured list. The Braves have been hit harder by injuries than any team in recent memory, across any sport.
Despite this, they have remained in contention for the Wild Card, largely due to their elite pitching staff. However, after their third straight loss last night, their postseason hopes are fading. To keep those dreams alive, they’ll need their pitching staff, led by Cy Young contender Chris Sale, to carry them through.
While Sale has rightfully garnered most of the attention, veteran closer Raisel Iglesias deserves praise for his indispensable role in the bullpen. Iglesias, who was identified by Jim Bowden of *The Athletic* as the Braves’ most underappreciated player, has quietly been one of the best closers in baseball this season.
Iglesias’ contribution highlights the Braves’ injury struggles. In a fully healthy squad, players like Michael Harris II or Travis d’Arnaud—who don’t often get the spotlight—might have received recognition. However, Iglesias has proven his value time and again, making him a critical piece of the Braves’ survival this season.
With the postseason still a possibility, the Braves will be relying heavily on Iglesias and the rest of the pitching staff.
Leave a Reply