The Los Angeles Dodgers have suffered a major blow in their quest to maintain a championship-caliber bullpen: Dodgers lose star pitcher Raisel Iglesias to a $16 million deal with the Atlanta Braves. After a successful 2025 season that saw the Dodgers win back-to-back World Series titles, the front office was hoping to retain Iglesias, but he ultimately chose to return to his former team, leaving a significant gap in the Dodgers’ late-inning relief corps.
Dodgers Lose Star Pitcher: The Iglesias Decision
Raisel Iglesias, who played a pivotal role as the Dodgers’ closer in 2025, received offers from both the Dodgers and the Toronto Blue Jays worth approximately $16 million. However, in a surprising move, Iglesias opted to rejoin the Braves, the team he previously helped to a World Series title. According to MLB insider Francys Romero, the Braves’ offer and organizational fit proved too appealing for Iglesias to pass up.
Real Facts and Impact
- Iglesias posted a stellar 2.85 ERA and 38 saves during his tenure with the Dodgers, anchoring the bullpen and providing stability in high-leverage situations.
- The Braves’ deal is a two-year contract valued at $16 million, a competitive offer that matches or exceeds what other NL teams were prepared to pay.
- The Dodgers now face the challenge of replacing a proven closer, with bullpen depth becoming a major concern heading into the 2026 season.
Dodgers Lose Star Pitcher: What’s Next for LA?
The Dodgers’ loss of Iglesias comes at a critical time, as the team looks to rebuild its bullpen after a wave of departures and retirements. With Clayton Kershaw retiring and other key relievers entering free agency, the front office will need to act quickly to find a reliable closer.
Potential targets include free agents and trade candidates, but the market for top-tier relievers is highly competitive. The Dodgers may also promote from within, giving younger arms like Ben Casperius a chance to step up in the closer role.
Dodgers Lose Star Pitcher: The Bigger Picture
The departure of Iglesias is more than just a personnel change—it’s a reminder of the volatility of free agency and the challenges of maintaining a championship roster. The Dodgers’ success in recent years has made them a prime target for other teams looking to poach talent, and Iglesias’ move to the Braves signals a shift in NL power dynamics.
Dodgers Lose Star Pitcher: Fan and Analyst Reaction
Dodgers fans are understandably disappointed, as Iglesias was a fan favorite and a key contributor to the team’s recent success. Analysts agree that his departure leaves a major hole in the bullpen, but also acknowledge that the Dodgers have a history of adapting quickly and finding solutions through trades or internal development.
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