Braves: The Raisel Iglesias trade was more brilliance from Alex Anthopoulos

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For the most part, the Braves were silent at the trade deadline. They made a couple of minor moves, like adding Robbie Grossman and Ehire Adrianza. The club also swapped Will Smith for Jake Odorizzi, but the blockbuster deal came right as the bell rang on August 2nd when reliever Raisel Iglesias was acquired in exchange for Tucker Davidson and Jesse Chavez.

Anthopoulos acknowledged that the trade for the former Angels closer came to fruition just minutes before the deadline, and everyone in Braves Country should be thrilled that it did. While Raisel Iglesias has adopted a new role in Atlanta as a set-up man, he’s been unhittable in nearly every appearance. Through 15 appearances (13.2 innings), Iglesias has only allowed one runner to cross the plate. He owns a .0805 WHIP to go along with a 9.2 K/9. It’s already looking like the acquisition was yet another touch of brilliance from Alex Anthopoulos.

The man has come as advertised, essentially replacing Will Smith as one of the Braves set-up men. It’s been a tremendous upgrade for the team, and the best part about it is that Raisel Iglesias is signed through 2025. With Jansen not having his best season and set to become a free agent following the Braves playoff run, Iglesias will likely serve as the team’s closer going forward.

Photo: Rich von Biberstein/Icon Sportswire

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