Atlanta Braves Decline Options on Pierce Johnson and Tyler Kinley

The Atlanta Braves have made significant roster decisions as they prepare for the 2026 season, notably declining the options for relief pitchers Pierce Johnson and Tyler Kinley. The Braves opted not to exercise Johnson's $7 million option and Kinley's $5.5 million option, which, when factoring in their respective buyouts, saves the team approximately $11 million in payroll and luxury tax space. This move comes as a surprise given both pitchers' recent performances.

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Pierce Johnson, 34, has been a reliable presence in the Braves' bullpen, posting a 3.05 ERA over 67 appearances in the 2025 season. His overall statistics with the team include a 2.91 ERA and a 158:49 strikeout-to-walk ratio across 139 innings over two and a half seasons. Meanwhile, Tyler Kinley, who was acquired from the Colorado Rockies, excelled after the trade, achieving a remarkable 0.72 ERA in 24 appearances for Atlanta. Both pitchers had shown potential to contribute significantly to the bullpen in the upcoming season.

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MLB insider Jon Heyman first reported the Braves' decision to decline the options, which was later confirmed by the team. The Braves' front office, led by General Manager Alex Anthopoulos, appears to be restructuring the bullpen following a disappointing season. The decision to part ways with Johnson and Kinley suggests a shift in strategy, as the team looks to allocate resources to other pressing needs.

Braves make another surprise, declining Pierce Johnson’s option

Critics of the Braves' decision argue that retaining Johnson and Kinley would have been prudent given their strong performances. The decline of Johnson's option, in particular, raises questions about the team's commitment to maintaining a competitive bullpen. With closer Raisel Iglesias also set to enter free agency, the Braves face the challenge of rebuilding their relief corps.

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With the departures of Johnson and Kinley, the Braves will need to explore options to fill the gaps in their bullpen. Potential in-house solutions include Joe Jiménez, who is returning from injury, and young prospects like Hayden Harris and Rolddy Muñoz. Additionally, the Braves may look to the free-agent market or trades to bolster their pitching staff ahead of the 2026 season.

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• “Both could still, theoretically, come back and pitch for the team next season on new contracts.” — Harrison Smajovits, Reporter

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The Braves' recent moves reflect a broader strategy to reshape their roster and address weaknesses in their bullpen as they prepare for the upcoming season.

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