Braves claim lefty Kevin Chapman off waivers

The Braves claimed left-hander Kevin Chapman off waivers from the Astros on Monday.

Chapman, 29, made 58 relief appearances for the Astros over the past three seasons. He posted a 4.09 ERA over 55 innings with 48 strikeouts, 31 walks and 54 hits allowed.

Chapman joins three veteran left-handers on the Braves roster who are vying for bullpen spots: Ian Krol, Paco Rodriguez and Eric O’Flaherty.

“We’ll put him in the mix,” Braves manager Brian Snitker said. “You can never have enough left-handers.”

Chapman is out of minor-league options. That means if the Braves put him on the 25-man roster to open the season they couldn’t send him down and then recall him again.

About the Author

Braves decline club options on Pierce Johnson, Tyler Kinley

The Braves declined the club options on relievers Pierce Johnson and Tyler Kinley, meaning that three of their top relievers will be free agents.

OPINION

As business booms for cost-cutting Braves, McGuirk aims for ‘top-5’ payroll

Off the field, the Atlanta Braves were a hit, with third-quarter revenue up 7% from 2024. That's little solace for fans who see ticket prices rising while the payroll isn't.