Following the Atlanta Braves decision to deal closer Craig Kimbrel on Sunday both Jason Grilli and Jim Johnson are now in line for the team’s ninth inning duties.
Kimbrel was traded along with Melvin Upton to the San Diego Padres in exchange for minor leaguer pitcher Matt Wisler and a trio of outfielders that includes Cameron Maybin, Carlos Quentin and Jorgan Paroubeck in addition to the 41st pick in the 2015 MLB Amateur Drafft.
With Kimbrel gone both Grilli and Johnson could see ninth inning work. Both have previously been All-Star closers in the past but both are working their way back from injuries and just plain ineffective play.
Quentin may end up being designated for assignment by the Braves who are in full-on rebuilding mode currently.
