The amount of money shelled out in free agency for relievers is really quite astonishing and will undoubtedly be too rich for Atlanta Braves GM Alex Anthopoulos and company’s blood this offseason, even though “bullpenning” is now a thing and in spite of Braves rumors on nearly every available free agent reliever.
Over the past few seasons, four closers have been given contracts with AAVs over 17 million dollars. Adding to that is the cost of middle relievers, which would also make a significant dent to the amount of money Atlanta has to spend this winter.