Joel Payamps Re-Signs with Braves on One-Year Deal

The Atlanta Braves just took another step to shore up their bullpen for next season, signing veteran righty Joel Payamps to a one-year, $2.25 million deal. Payamps, known for his steadiness over several seasons, joins the Braves as one more piece in their push to build a late-inning core that doesn’t fall apart under pressure.

This move follows the re-signing of closer Raisel Iglesias and a trade for versatile infielder-outfielder Mauricio Dubón. Atlanta’s not wasting any time—they’re attacking the early offseason with real intent.

Braves’ Strategy: Building a Reliable Bullpen

Signing Payamps shows just how much the Braves value bullpen strength heading into 2025. Relievers matter more than ever these days, especially with starters coming out earlier and so many games decided in those tense final innings.

With Iglesias back on a one-year, $16 million deal, and now Payamps added, Atlanta’s stacking up proven arms who know how to handle tight spots.

Who is Joel Payamps?

Payamps, 31, has built a solid big league career since his 2019 debut. He’s bounced around—Arizona, Toronto, Kansas City, Milwaukee, and lately, Atlanta.

His career line—3.41 ERA and 10 saves over seven seasons—shows he’s a dependable reliever, comfortable in both middle and late innings. That’s not nothing in today’s game.

Sure, his 2024 ERA of 6.84 jumps off the page. But after Atlanta picked him up off waivers from Milwaukee, he looked sharper—just one run allowed in two and two-thirds innings for the Braves.

And with Milwaukee, he notched a career-best six saves. So, he’s shown he can handle bigger moments if called upon.

The Braves’ Early Offseason Moves

Atlanta’s front office isn’t sitting on its hands this winter. Locking up key bullpen pieces early sets a tone for the offseason and maybe keeps them out of messy free-agent bidding wars.

Besides bringing back Iglesias and signing Payamps, the Braves traded for Mauricio Dubón, sending infielder Nick Allen to Houston in return.

The Value of Mauricio Dubón

Dubón’s versatility stands out—he’s played almost everywhere for the Astros, both infield and outfield. That kind of flexibility is gold over a 162-game grind, where injuries and off days are just part of the deal.

Why Bullpen Stability Matters

Consistency in relief pitching can be the line between a contender and a team that fizzles. The Braves know all about how crucial a steady bullpen is after their recent playoff runs.

With Iglesias set as closer and Payamps lined up for middle relief, Atlanta’s building a bridge to the ninth inning. That’s the stretch of the game where things can really unravel—or get locked down for good.

Payamps’ Potential Role in 2025

If Payamps bounces back to his career averages, he’ll bring veteran presence and reliable innings in tough spots. He’s played for a handful of teams and filled a bunch of roles, so manager Brian Snitker might use him wherever needed—seventh-inning leads, high-leverage jams, or even the occasional spot save if Iglesias needs a breather.

Looking Ahead

The Braves are making it clear: they’re not interested in waiting around. They want to win now, and they’re making moves to back it up.

• Re-signed closer Raisel Iglesias to keep the ninth inning locked down.
• Brought in Joel Payamps on a one-year, $2.25 million deal for depth.
• Acquired utility man Mauricio Dubón to boost roster flexibility.

Final Thoughts

The Braves look like they’re building for another postseason push. By investing early in their bullpen, they’ve made it clear: they’re not messing around for 2025.

They’ve also picked up some adaptable position players. It’s a signal that this team wants to compete at the highest level.

Joel Payamps isn’t the flashiest signing of the offseason. Still, his steady track record and experience could matter a lot for Atlanta’s championship hopes.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Payamps to stay with Braves on 1-year contract