Raisel Iglesias Returns From Shoulder Injury and the Braves' Bullpen Just Got Dangerous Again

The Atlanta Braves got their closer back Tuesday. Raisel Iglesias was activated from the injured list after missing time with right shoulder inflammation, and suddenly Atlanta's late-inning picture looks a whole lot sharper. The 36-year-old right-hander last pitched on April 19, but when he's been available this season, he's been lights out: five saves in eight relief appearances without allowing a single run across 8 2/3 innings.

The Move That Clears the Deck

To make room for Iglesias, the Braves designated right-hander Carlos Carrasco for assignment. This is the second time this season Atlanta has cut ties with the 39-year-old veteran, and the third time since August overall. Carrasco had pitched in two outings covering 2 1/3 innings without allowing a run, but the writing was clearly on the wall. With 17 major league seasons under his belt and a career 4.22 ERA, Carrasco's run with the Braves appears to be winding down.

What's Next in the Recovery Pipeline

The Braves also shuffled their injury rehab assignments on Tuesday. Left-hander Dylan Dodd, dealing with a back injury, was sent to Triple-A Gwinnett for a rehab assignment. Meanwhile, shortstop Ha-Seong Kim's rehab assignment was bumped up from Double-A Columbus to Triple-A Gwinnett as he works his way back from a finger issue.

Iglesias brings serious pedigree to this bullpen. Over 12 career seasons with the Cincinnati Reds, Los Angeles Angels, and Braves, he's compiled 42 wins and 55 losses with a 2.86 ERA and 258 saves across 608 appearances. Having him back healthy could be the difference between holding leads and blowing them in the late innings.

This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.