The Atlanta Braves have taken significant steps to bolster their pitching staff for the upcoming seasons. According to a close source, the team has reached a two-year, $13 million agreement with left-hander Aaron Bummer and revised the contract of All-Star right-hander Reynaldo Lopez, guaranteeing him an additional $4 million.
Bummer’s Multi-Year Deal
Aaron Bummer, who was acquired from the Chicago White Sox last November, has proven to be a valuable addition to the Braves’ bullpen. The 31-year-old lefty posted a 3.58 ERA in 56 appearances last season, striking out 69 batters in 55⅓ innings. His consistent performance and ability to handle high-pressure situations have earned him a well-deserved contract extension.
Under the terms of his new deal, Bummer will receive salaries of $3.5 million in 2025 and $9.5 million in 2026. This financial commitment demonstrates the Braves’ confidence in Bummer’s skills and their belief that he will continue to be a key contributor to the team’s success.
Bummer’s Journey to Atlanta
Bummer’s path to the Braves was paved by a trade that sent several promising young players to the White Sox, including pitchers Mike Soroka and Jared Shuster, as well as infielders Nicky Lopez and Braden Shewmake. The Braves’ willingness to part with such talented prospects highlights the value they placed on acquiring a reliable left-handed reliever like Bummer.
Aaron has been a tremendous asset to our bullpen since joining the team. His consistency and ability to get crucial outs in high-leverage situations have been invaluable. We’re thrilled to have him on board for the next two seasons.
– A source close to the Braves organization
Lopez’s Revised Contract
In addition to securing Bummer’s services, the Braves have also revised the contract of All-Star right-hander Reynaldo Lopez. The 30-year-old had originally agreed to a three-year, $30 million deal last November, but the team has now guaranteed him an additional $4 million.
Lopez’s outstanding performance last season, which included a 1.99 ERA in 25 starts and one relief appearance, undoubtedly played a role in the Braves’ decision to sweeten his contract. His ability to strike out batters while limiting walks has made him a valuable member of the starting rotation.
| Season | Salary |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $8 million |
| 2026 | $14 million |
| 2027 | $8 million |
With Lopez’s revised contract, the Braves have ensured that they will have a top-tier starting pitcher anchoring their rotation for the foreseeable future. His presence, along with the addition of Bummer to the bullpen, gives the team a formidable pitching staff that should strike fear into the hearts of opposing lineups.
Investing in the Community
Beyond their on-field contributions, both Bummer and Lopez have demonstrated a commitment to giving back to the community. As part of their new contracts, each player will donate 1% of their salary to the Atlanta Braves Foundation, which supports various charitable initiatives throughout the Atlanta area.
We believe in using our platform to make a positive impact in the lives of others. By contributing a portion of our salaries to the Atlanta Braves Foundation, we hope to help create opportunities and support programs that benefit the community.
– A statement from Bummer and Lopez
Looking Ahead
With these key pitching contracts in place, the Atlanta Braves are well-positioned to compete for a championship in the coming seasons. The combination of a talented starting rotation, a deep bullpen, and a lineup filled with offensive firepower makes them a force to be reckoned with in the National League.
As the team prepares for the upcoming campaign, fans can take comfort in knowing that the Braves’ front office is committed to assembling a roster capable of bringing another World Series title to Atlanta. The signings of Bummer and Lopez serve as a testament to that dedication and provide a glimpse of the exciting future that lies ahead for this storied franchise.
