Braves fans are hopeful but cautious about Craig Kimbrel’s return. While he brings a wave of nostalgia for longtime supporters, most are aware that he’s nearly 37 and coming off a rough season with the Orioles—possibly the worst of his career. He’s generally expected to provide bullpen depth, though Kimbrel himself has bigger ambitions.

After six solid outings in the Atlanta Braves minors since re-signing with Atlanta, Kimbrel looks close to rejoining the major league roster. And when he does, he’s determined to prove the doubters wrong.

Kimbrel Isn’t Treating This Like a Farewell Tour

In an insightful article by Gabe Burns of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Kimbrel shared that his return to Atlanta isn’t just about sentiment. “I’m not coming back here for a last hurrah or trying to have one more good year,” Kimbrel said. “I view this offseason as a reset. I believe I can still do this—not just this year, but for a few more.”

While he acknowledges he’s not the same fireballer he once was and has to lean more on strategy and experience now, Kimbrel believes his past health issues are behind him and his body still has a couple solid seasons left.

Skepticism remains—he’s an aging reliever with declining velocity—but if he can stay healthy and effective, his comeback might be more than just a feel-good story for Braves fans.