Braves Sign Reliever Ian Hamilton to One-Year Major League Contract
The Atlanta Braves have added right-handed reliever Ian Hamilton to their bullpen with a one-year, non-guaranteed Major League contract. Hamilton, 30, has six MLB seasons of experience, including the past three with the Yankees, where he posted a 2.64 ERA and 69 strikeouts over 58 innings in 2023. His performance declined in recent years due to injuries and inconsistent results; in 2024, he missed nearly three months with a right lat strain and finished the season with a 4.28 ERA over 40 innings, spending the last two months at Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. Hamilton's contract is non-guaranteed, meaning he could be on a Minor League or split contract, earning prorated MLB salary when on the roster. The Braves signed him after he was non-tendered by the Yankees last month, where he made 36 appearances with a 4.28 ERA. Hamilton has also played for the White Sox and Twins, with a career-best 2.64 ERA in 2023. The team faces roster constraints with key relievers like Raisel Iglesias, Robert Suarez, and Aaron Bummer already secured, but Hamilton will compete for a middle relief spot in spring training. If he does not make the roster, he could be outrighted or traded, with the potential to elect free agency due to his MLB service time. The Braves are actively strengthening their bullpen, having previously signed relievers Robert Suarez and Mike Yastrzemski, and are seeking impactful starting pitching to bolster their postseason chances.
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