The Braves continue to battle an unprecedented wave of injuries, with a long list of high-impact pitchers still working their way back—many of them from the opening day rotation. While most are unlikely to return before the end of the 2025 season, one reliever who had a legitimate shot at contributing has now hit a major roadblock.
Joe Jiménez, who underwent offseason knee surgery to clean up loose cartilage, was initially expected to return within 8 to 12 months—a timeline that gave him a reasonable chance of appearing late in the season. Just a few weeks ago, things were trending in the right direction. Jiménez had begun throwing bullpen sessions and appeared to be on schedule for a late-summer comeback.
But that hope has now been dashed.
According to Braves insider Grant McAuley, Jiménez has experienced renewed discomfort in his surgically repaired knee. As a result, the team has shut him down indefinitely, a disappointing development for both the player and a bullpen that could’ve used the boost.
This is yet another setback in what has been a nightmarish injury stretch for Atlanta—one of the most brutal seen in recent MLB history. If there’s a fan base out there that’s endured anything similar over the last two seasons, Braves fans would love to hear from you, because this stretch has felt endless.
Beyond the immediate impact, this situation should sound alarm bells in the Braves’ front office. General Manager Alex Anthopoulos cannot afford to bank on a full-scale return from this injured group heading into 2026. While one or two players might defy the odds and make a meaningful contribution, the offseason strategy must assume that the majority will offer little to no impact.
If Atlanta enters next year with the same injury-dependent roster construction, fans shouldn’t expect different results. It’s time for a more proactive and cautious approach—one that builds around healthy, available talent rather than hoping for medical miracles.
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