Jesse Chavez Returns (Again) as Braves Turn to Veteran Amid Bullpen Struggles

ATLANTA, GA — April 23, 2025

In what’s become almost tradition at this point, right-hander Jesse Chavez is once again back in a Braves uniform. Atlanta has selected the 40-year-old veteran to the Major League roster, marking his second return to the club this season alone—and yet another chapter in a long-standing relationship between player and franchise.

Chavez Makes Another Comeback

The move comes as the Braves continue to search for consistency in a bullpen that has faltered early in the season. Chavez, who was released by the Texas Rangers after Spring Training, rejoined Atlanta on a minor league deal and briefly appeared in a March 31 game against the Dodgers. He was designated for assignment shortly after but chose to stay within the organization, re-signing once again.

Now, he’s back—called up to provide a steady hand in a bullpen that’s been anything but.

Rosters Reshuffled: Alvarez to 60-Day IL, Wiles Optioned

To make room for Chavez, the Braves transferred infielder Nacho Alvarez Jr. to the 60-day injured list and optioned right-hander Nathan Wiles to Triple-A Gwinnett. Alvarez, the club’s No. 4-ranked prospect according to MLB.com, has been out since Spring Training due to a wrist injury and had yet to appear in a game this season.

Wiles, who was added to the 40-man roster just before Tuesday night’s game, struggled in his Major League debut. He allowed three runs in the ninth inning during a rough outing against the Cardinals—highlighting Atlanta’s ongoing bullpen issues.

Chavez Proving His Value in Triple-A

While his brief Major League appearance this year wasn’t stellar—two innings, one run on two hits and two walks—Chavez has quietly impressed in Triple-A Gwinnett. In five appearances, he’s thrown five scoreless innings (the only run was unearned), allowing just two hits, issuing no walks, and striking out 10.

Those numbers reflect the type of command and composure that the Braves are desperate to inject into their late-inning efforts.

Bullpen Blues Call for a Trusted Arm

Over the last two games against St. Louis, Atlanta’s bullpen has surrendered nine runs across the eighth and ninth innings—turning competitive contests into frustrating losses. With the relief corps underperforming, bringing back a seasoned veteran like Chavez isn’t just logical—it’s necessary.

Chavez has been through nearly every role imaginable throughout his 16-year career: starter, long reliever, setup man, and mentor. His leadership and experience are valued assets for a team trying to navigate early-season turbulence.

More Than Just a Stopgap

Jesse Chavez may not have the flash of a top prospect or the velocity of a young fireballer, but what he brings to Atlanta is reliability and trust. And in a bullpen currently searching for answers, that might be exactly what the Braves need most.

So yes, he’s back—again. And for Braves fans, that’s nothing but good news.