3 players Braves must extend not named Dansby Swanson

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ATLANTA, GEORGIA – OCTOBER 12: Kenley Jansen #74 of the Atlanta Braves warms up during the eighth inning of the game against the Philadelphia Phillies in game two of the National League Division Series at Truist Park on October 12, 2022 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Adam Hagy/Getty Images) /

Braves rumors: Sign Kenley Jansen

Atlanta has a tough choice to make in its bullpen. Closer Kenley Jansen proved elite for most of the year, before struggling some in September. Jansen is one of the best closers of his era, and there’s no guarantee whoever replaces him will succeed at the same rate.

There is a major difference between late-inning relievers and closers, in mental makeup and pitch selection. Jansen is the latter for a good reason, and transformed the Braves bullpen when brought aboard this year.

Yet, Raisel Iglesias pitched quite well after the trade deadline and is a former closer himself. His contract pays him handsomely next year. Is it wise for the Braves to invest so heavily in two players who, on the surface, can both close games?

I would argue yes, if only because Iglesias struggled as compared to Jansen when he was in that position last. And, as Jansen has proven previously, the Braves can win a World Series with him closing games.

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