The Boston Red Sox have hosted some Hall of Fame-caliber relievers in recent memory, one of whom has spent the last few years aiming to find a steady home.
Well-traveled former Red Sox closer Craig Kimbrel has a new organization to call home after the nine-time MLB All-Star and 2018 World Champion signed a minor league deal with the Texas Rangers on Monday, according to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic.
Recently designated for assignment by the Atlanta Braves, the 37-year-old former hard-tossing right-hander has saved 440 games during a 16-year career that has included stints with eight different MLB ball clubs.
During his three seasons in Boston, Kimbrel saved 108 games with 305 strikeouts and a 2.44 ERA in 184 1/3 innings pitched.
After leaving the Red Sox via free agency following the 2018 title run, Kimbrel has spent time with the Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Los Angeles Dodgers, Philadelphia Phillies, Baltimore Orioles and Braves.
Kimbrel struggled as a member of the Orioles last season, recording a career-low -1.1 bWAR, and watching his ERA climb to 5.33 before Baltimore released him on Sept. 24.
After remaining unsigned entering spring training, Kimbrel inked a minor league deal with the Braves in March. Despite being called up and making one scoreless appearance with Atlanta last week, Kimbrel was designated for assignment the following day.
Currently ranked fifth all-time in career saves, Kimbel’s track record of past success could make him an appealing option for the Rangers should manager Bruce Bochy choose to go in a different direction with the closer role this season. The Rangers currently find themselves in fourth place (31-35) in the American League West division.
