Joe Jimenez is set to return for the MLB’s 2024 season as the Puerto Rican reliever secured a three-year, $26 million contract with the reigning National League champions. The Atlanta Braves wasted no time, sealing the deal less than 12 hours after the conclusion of the World Series.

Alex Anthopoulos, the President of Baseball Operations for the Braves, was keen to secure Jimenez’s signature promptly, as the right-hander would have entered free agency during the upcoming offseason.

As per the agreement, the 28-year-old pitcher will earn $8 million in 2024, followed by $9 million for the 2025 and 2026 seasons.

The Braves acquired Jimenez from the Detroit Tigers in December of the previous year, following his impressive 2022 season. The reliever underwent back surgery in the offseason to address a lumbar spine strain.

Jimenez encountered early struggles in the 2023 season due to his recovery from surgery. However, he gradually regained his form, ultimately delivering one of the best seasons of his career.

Jimenez’s season stats

During the current season, the Puerto Rican posted a career-high 3.04 ERA and recorded 73 strikeouts across 56.1 innings in 59 appearances, finishing with a 0-3 record.

Throughout his career, Jimenez has maintained a 4.86 ERA and struck out 406 batters in 356 games (covering 322.1 innings). His win-loss record stands at 19 wins and 22 losses.

In his final year with the Detroit Tigers, Jimenez secured a 3.49 ERA while striking out 77 opponents. He made appearances in 62 games and pitched 56.2 innings.

n recent developments, the Atlanta Braves signed reliever Pierce Johnson to a two-year, $14.25 million contract, with a $7 million option for 2026, accompanied by a $250,000 buyout. The 32-year-old is set to earn $7 million for each of the upcoming two seasons.

The team is actively negotiating with Jesse Chavez, Kirby Yates, Brad Hand, and Collin McHugh to secure their return for the MLB’s 2024 season. McHugh, Hand, and Yates each have options in their current contracts, and the team must exercise them by Monday.