Craig Kimbrel is one of the most dominant closers in Major League Baseball (MLB) history. Known for his blazing fastball, sharp breaking ball, and unique pre-pitch stance, Kimbrel has built a Hall of Fame-worthy career over more than a decade. As he continues to add to his legacy, Kimbrel remains a key figure in high-stakes situations for his team. This article explores Kimbrel’s career journey, his standout moments, and his current performance on the mound.
Early Life and Draft
Craig Kimbrel was born on May 28, 1988, in Huntsville, Alabama. He attended Lee High School, where he showed early promise as a pitcher with his high strikeout rate and velocity.
Kimbrel played college baseball at Wallace State Community College in Hanceville, Alabama, where he developed his signature fastball and improved his command. His college success caught the attention of MLB scouts, and he was selected by the Atlanta Braves in the third round of the 2008 MLB Draft.
MLB Career Overview
1. Atlanta Braves (2010–2014) – Historic Start
Kimbrel made his MLB debut for the Braves in 2010 and immediately impressed with his overpowering fastball and devastating breaking ball. In his rookie season in 2011, he recorded:
- 46 saves – a rookie record
- ERA: 2.10
- Strikeouts: 127 in 77 innings
- NL Rookie of the Year
Kimbrel’s dominant fastball-slider combination made him nearly unhittable. He consistently struck out hitters at an elite rate and quickly became one of the most feared closers in the game.
From 2011 to 2014, Kimbrel was selected to four consecutive All-Star Games and led the National League in saves for four straight seasons. His best season came in 2013, when he posted:
- ERA: 1.21
- Saves: 50
- Strikeouts: 98 in 67 innings
2. San Diego Padres (2015)
In a surprise move, the Braves traded Kimbrel to the San Diego Padres before the 2015 season. While his ERA rose slightly to 2.58, he still recorded 39 saves and maintained a strikeout rate above 13 K/9.
3. Boston Red Sox (2016–2018) – Championship Glory
Kimbrel was traded to the Boston Red Sox before the 2016 season. After adjusting to the American League, he regained his dominance in 2017 with:
- ERA: 1.43
- Saves: 35
- Strikeouts: 126 in 69 innings
Kimbrel played a crucial role in the Red Sox’s 2018 World Series run. While his postseason ERA was higher than usual, he closed out several critical games, helping Boston secure their fourth championship since 2004.
4. Chicago Cubs (2019–2021) – Mixed Results
Kimbrel signed a three-year, $43 million contract with the Chicago Cubs in 2019. However, he struggled with injuries and inconsistent performance early in his Cubs tenure.
In 2021, Kimbrel regained his elite form:
- ERA: 0.49 (with Cubs)
- Saves: 23
- Strikeouts: 64 in 36.2 innings
Kimbrel’s resurgence made him a valuable trade target, and he was dealt to the Chicago White Sox at the 2021 trade deadline.
5. Chicago White Sox (2021)
Kimbrel struggled after the trade, posting an ERA of 5.09 while adjusting to a setup role rather than his usual closer position. Despite the challenges, Kimbrel’s strikeout rate remained high, and he contributed to the White Sox’s playoff run.
6. Los Angeles Dodgers (2022)
The White Sox traded Kimbrel to the Los Angeles Dodgers before the 2022 season. While Kimbrel led the team with 22 saves, his performance was inconsistent:
- ERA: 3.75
- Blown saves: 5
- Strikeouts: 72 in 60 innings
The Dodgers removed Kimbrel from the closer role late in the season, but he remained a valuable bullpen arm during the playoffs.
7. Philadelphia Phillies (2023)
Kimbrel signed with the Philadelphia Phillies ahead of the 2023 season. He started strong and reached several career milestones:
- Became the eighth pitcher in MLB history to record 400 career saves
- Earned his ninth All-Star selection
Kimbrel helped lead the Phillies to the NLCS but struggled in the postseason, recording an ERA above 5.00 in key appearances.
8. Baltimore Orioles (2024) – Current Performance
Kimbrel signed with the Baltimore Orioles on a one-year, $13 million contract for the 2024 season. He was named the team’s primary closer and has shown signs of regaining his dominant form.
2024 Season Stats (through first 15 appearances):
- ERA: 2.45
- Saves: 10
- Strikeouts: 22
- WHIP: 1.05
Kimbrel’s fastball velocity remains in the mid-to-upper 90s, and his slider continues to be a swing-and-miss weapon. The Orioles have positioned themselves as playoff contenders, and Kimbrel’s ability to lock down games late will be key to their success.
Strengths and Pitching Arsenal
1. Fastball
- Velocity: 96–98 mph
- High spin rate makes it effective up in the zone
2. Slider
- Velocity: 85–88 mph
- Sharp downward break, often used to strike out right-handed hitters
3. Curveball
- Velocity: 81–84 mph
- Big break, used primarily to keep hitters off balance
Kimbrel’s ability to mix pitches and generate swings and misses remains a key part of his success.
Career Achievements and Milestones
Kimbrel’s career has been defined by consistent excellence and historic milestones:
- 400+ career saves (8th all-time)
- 9-time All-Star
- 2018 World Series Champion
- 2011 NL Rookie of the Year
- Career ERA: 2.45
- Career Strikeouts: Over 1,200
Challenges and Future Outlook
At 36 years old, Kimbrel faces the natural challenges of aging, but his performance in 2024 suggests that he still has elite closer ability. His high strikeout rate and improved command indicate that he could remain effective for several more seasons.
Potential future milestones include:
- Reaching 500 career saves – would place him in the top five all-time
- Another All-Star selection would tie him with Mariano Rivera for most among relievers
Final Thoughts
Craig Kimbrel’s career has been one of the most dominant in MLB history. From his record-breaking rookie season to his role in Boston’s championship run and beyond, Kimbrel has consistently been one of the best closers in the game. As he continues his career with the Orioles, Kimbrel’s legacy as a future Hall of Famer is already secure.
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