Braves Reacquire Reliever Joel Payamps
The Atlanta Braves have finalized a one-year agreement with reliever Joel Payamps, marking his return to the team. This decision follows a brief tenure with the Milwaukee Brewers, where the Braves had previously claimed him off waivers. Payamps will earn $2.25 million in the 2026 season as part of this new deal.
Performance Overview of Joel Payamps
In the 2025 season, Joel Payamps faced challenges, participating in 30 games split between the Braves and Brewers. His performance statistics were underwhelming.
- ERA: 6.84
- xERA: 7.15
- Innings Pitched: 26.1
This represents his lowest innings count in the majors since 2020. His strikeout rate also dipped, although he did manage two strikeouts in 2.2 innings with Atlanta. However, he allowed one home run during this brief stint.
Past Success and Future Potential
Despite a rocky 2025 season, Payamps previously showcased his capabilities as a reliable reliever from 2021 to 2024. During those years, he consistently struck out over 25% of the batters he faced, bolstered by an impressive xFIP below 4.00.
Nevertheless, last season saw an increase in his barrel rate combined with a decline in strikeouts, indicating areas for improvement.
Braves Bullpen Outlook
Joel Payamps, now 31, joins the Braves as an important addition to their bullpen depth. This will be his sixth major league organization since making his debut with the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2019. His experience could prove beneficial as Atlanta navigates its options for the upcoming season.
- Established bullpen pitcher: Raisel Iglesias (re-signed)
- Uncertain status: Joe Jimenez for 2026
- Declined options on: Pierce Johnson and Tyler Kinley
As the Braves head closer to Spring Training, Payamps will have the opportunity to solidify his position on the team and help contribute to the bullpen’s success in 2026.
