Raisel Iglesias has long been a reliable arm at the back of the Atlanta Braves’ bullpen. But as the 2025 MLB season unfolds, the team and fans are beginning to question whether their closer can still deliver when it matters most. Let’s delve into Iglesias’s recent struggles, analyze what’s going wrong, and examine what options the Braves may have moving forward.

The Current State of Raisel Iglesias

After an impressive 2024 season, expectations for Raisel Iglesias were sky-high. Unfortunately, his performance so far in 2025 has left much to be desired. Through the first 15 innings, Iglesias has already surrendered six home runs—more than his total from the entire previous season. His ERA has jumped to 5.40, and doubt is creeping into the minds of Braves fans and coaches alike.

For a deeper look at this developing issue, Braves Can No Longer Ignore the Raisel Iglesias Problem highlights the reliever’s struggles and the tough decisions facing Atlanta’s bullpen this year. While his ability to strike out batters remains intact, the increase in home runs allowed and inconsistency on the mound have become glaring concerns.

Pinpointing the Problem: Is It the Slider?

Coaches and analysts have started to zero in on Iglesias’s slider as a key contributor to his woes. According to Braves will stay with struggling Raisel Iglesias, four out of the six home runs he has given up this season have come off sliders. Last season, opponents hit only one home run off his slider in 45 at-bats. This sudden jump indicates a problem with either the pitch’s execution or command.

Braves manager Brian Snitker believes that with some adjustments, Iglesias can regain his proficiency. His changeup and fastball still produce good results—batters are struggling to make contact. If he fixes the slider, hope remains that he’ll return to form.

Evaluating Bullpen Options

The Braves’ bullpen is not brimming with clear replacements for Iglesias. While veterans like Craig Kimbrel and hard-throwing relievers such as Pierce Johnson offer support, there isn’t an obvious successor. Joe Jiménez and Daysbel Hernandez are possible alternatives, but neither has stepped forward as a surefire closer. As outlined in Disappointing Braves veteran on short leash to turn season around, the lack of depth leaves Atlanta with few easy answers.

There’s also the question of timing. With the Braves fighting to stay competitive in a tough National League East, every blown save hurts. Fans and coaches are left hoping Iglesias can turn things around swiftly.

What’s Next for Raisel Iglesias and the Braves?

Iglesias is in the final year of his contract. At 35 years old, every performance carries extra weight—not just for this season, but for his career. The Braves’ best course may be supporting their veteran closer while exploring backup options. This approach gives Iglesias the chance to bounce back, while also ensuring the team isn’t caught unprepared if his struggles persist.

Conclusion: The Path Forward

The 2025 season represents a pivotal chapter in Raisel Iglesias’s career with the Atlanta Braves. Addressing his slider and regaining consistency could quiet doubts and stabilize the bullpen. However, the Braves must be vigilant and ready to act if issues remain. Whether Iglesias rediscovers his elite form or the team is forced to adjust, his role will be a key storyline for the remainder of the season.

For ongoing updates and expert analysis, be sure to follow the latest Braves coverage and stay tuned as the situation develops. Braves fans are hoping that Raisel Iglesias can still be the anchor this championship-aspiring team needs at the end of close games.