Craig Kimbrel nearing Braves return after latest step

Craig Kimbrel in a Braves uniform with the eyes emojis everywhere. He is standing next to the medical red crossThe nine-time All-Star, Craig Kimbrel, might be one step closer to suiting up for the Atlanta Braves again. Kimbrel threw live batting practice earlier this week, continuing to build up his arm strength as he attempts to make a return to the major leagues. Now on a minor league deal with the Braves, Kimbrel is expected to remain at the team’s spring training site before eventually joining Triple-A Gwinnett.

“It’ll be awesome if he can come in and do that,” Braves manager Brian Snitker said. “It’ll be good to see him. God, I loved Craig.”

For Kimbrel, 36, this comeback is about more…