MLB Hot Stove Notes: Atlanta Braves sign free agent hurler to a 3-year deal
The Atlanta Braves have announced they have signed right-handed reliever Reynaldo Lopez to a three-year, $30 million deal.
The deal pays $4 million in 2024, and $11 million the following two years. In 2027, there an $8 million club option with a $4 million buyout. The details were provided in the team announcement.
Lopez becomes the fifth pitcher added to the Braves bullpen for 2024. Atlanta re-signed righties Joe Jimenz and Pierce Johnson and acquired Aaron Bummer and Jackson Kowar in separate trades.
The Braves are expected to have Lopez prepare as a starting pitcher this winter, per Justin Toscano of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
The 30-year-old was traded prior to the MLB trade deadline alongside Lucas Giolito to the Angels. He was later placed on waivers and claimed by the Guardians.The right hander started the 2023 season with the White Sox before being traded at the deadline to the Angels. Lopez, as part of a salary dump, got designated for assignment and was claimed by the Guardians to finish the season.
The 29 year old compiled a 3.27 ERA through 66 innings. He had a career best strikeout rate at 11.3 K/9 between the three teams. His fastball velocity was in the 96th percentile, as it average 98.2 mph.
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