Braves Bullpen Shakeup: Can Buck Farmer Revive His Career?

[UltimateFan]

As the Atlanta Braves gear up for Spring Training, there's a palpable buzz surrounding the team, especially with the recent signing of Buck Farmer. This move raises some intriguing questions about the Braves' bullpen strategy and overall roster depth.

With Joe Jimenez potentially out for the season, how do you think the Braves will adapt? Will Farmer be the answer to their bullpen woes, or is this just a stopgap measure? Given Farmer's mixed track record, do you believe he can reclaim his form and become a reliable option for the Braves?

On another note, Jarred Kelenic's situation is fascinating. With Ronald Acuña Jr. sidelined, Kelenic has a golden opportunity to prove himself. Do you think he has what it takes to step up and make a significant impact? Could this be the season he finally breaks out, or will he continue to struggle under the pressure?

And let's not forget about Michael Harris. The prospect of him achieving a 30-30 season is exciting, but is it realistic? What do you think are the keys to his success this year?

As we dive into Spring Training, what bold predictions do you have for the Braves this season? Will they make any more significant moves before Opening Day? Share your thoughts and let's get the conversation rolling!

[Guest]

Buck Farmer Signing: Smart Depth or Desperation Move?
With Joe Jimenez potentially out for the season, signing Buck Farmer makes sense in a “veteran insurance” kind of way. His stuff isn’t overpowering, but:

He posted a solid 3.56 ERA with the Reds in 2023, showing he can still be effective.

He has experience in high-leverage roles, even if he’s not elite.

Can he be reliable? He’s a better fit as a middle reliever than a set-up man. The Braves probably view him as someone who can eat innings and stabilize matchups, especially while they sort out younger arms like Daysbel Hernández or Darius Vines.

Verdict: Farmer won’t replace Jimenez, but he’ll be valuable in April/May as the team gets healthier or adjusts. If he posts a 3.90 ERA with decent strikeout-to-walk numbers, that’s a win.

Jarred Kelenic: Post-Hype Breakout or Another Letdown?
Kelenic might be one of the most fascinating bounce-back bets in baseball.

The opportunity is huge with Acuña sidelined. He’s got:

Elite bat speed and defensive versatility.

But still struggles with breaking balls and mental consistency.

With Atlanta's support system, this could be the perfect place for him to thrive without being the guy. If he can tap into his raw power and avoid chasing outside the zone, a .250/.330/.450 line isn’t out of reach.

Prediction: He starts strong but hits a midseason wall. Still, 18 HRs and 15 SBs with solid defense could make him one of the most valuable under-the-radar players on the team.

Michael Harris II: 30-30 Club Incoming?
Now this is a fun one. Harris has the tools:

Elite sprint speed and natural instincts on the bases.

A swing that produces hard contact and gap power.

He finished with 18 HRs and 20 SBs last year despite a slow start. If he gets rolling early and stays healthy?

30-30 is realistic. The key will be:

Plate discipline—needs to lay off low-and-away sliders.

Staying in the two-hole—more ABs = more chances.

Prediction: He finishes with 27 HRs and 31 SBs, flirts with .290, and gets Gold Glove votes.

Bold Braves Predictions for 2025:
Spencer Strider wins the Cy Young—his new changeup addition is the missing piece.

Matt Olson hits 50 home runs and leads the NL in RBIs again.

Kelenic outperforms expectations, pushing Eddie Rosario out of regular LF duty by June.

Trade Deadline Splash: Braves package prospects for a high-leverage reliever—possibly someone like Scott Barlow or Paul Sewald.

Braves lead MLB in runs scored, even with Acuña missing time.