When discussing the Atlanta Braves’ offseason losses, most of the focus has understandably been on free agency departures. The rotation took a significant hit with Charlie Morton and, more notably, former ace Max Fried now pitching elsewhere in 2025. In the bullpen, AJ Minter’s move to the Mets is another key departure. However, Joe Jimenez’s injury has flown under the radar despite its major impact.
While Atlanta still has Raisel Iglesias as their closer, losing Jimenez, their primary setup man, is a significant blow—one the team didn’t adequately address in the offseason. Although the Braves were aware Jimenez was dealing with an issue, few anticipated that he would require knee surgery, potentially sidelining him for the entire 2025 season.
Now, as spring training unfolds, there’s a more optimistic outlook. While Jimenez won’t be available in the first half, there is growing hope that he could return for the second half of the season.
Joe Jimenez’s recovery from knee surgery is going well, could return in 2025
Joe Jimenez’s recovery timeline is fairly straightforward. After undergoing surgery to repair cartilage damage in his left knee following the 2024 season, his expected recovery period ranges from eight to 12 months. If his rehab takes the full year, he’ll miss the entire 2025 season. However, if he’s able to return in the eight-to-nine-month range, he could contribute out of the Braves’ bullpen for much of the second half.
At this stage, it’s too early to predict exactly when Jimenez will be ready. However, given that he initially pitched through the injury, his toughness suggests a quicker return is possible. When asked about his recovery during spring training, Jimenez remained focused on the rehab process:
“Obviously, it’s a long process, but I come here every day to work and try to do everything that I can just to make it right now. Obviously, hopefully I pitch this year. We don’t know yet. As of now, I’m focusing on my rehab every day and see how it goes.”
If Jimenez avoids setbacks—something that shouldn’t be assumed given the Braves’ injury struggles in 2024—the team’s decision not to add a major bullpen piece this offseason could work out. However, if things don’t go as planned, Atlanta will likely be aggressive at the trade deadline in strengthening their relief corps.
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