The Atlanta Braves just got a whole lot stronger in the late innings. After weeks of waiting, the team has officially reinstated veteran closer Raisel Iglesias from the injured list—a move that sends a clear message: the bullpen is back to full strength.

Iglesias had been sidelined since late April with right shoulder inflammation, landing on the 15-day IL just as he was heating up. Before the injury, the right-hander was nothing short of dominant, locking down save after save and proving once again why he’s the anchor of Atlanta’s bullpen. His command was sharp, his velocity was electric, and he was making hitters look helpless in high-pressure spots.

His absence was felt immediately. The Braves had to patch together late-inning duties without their go-to closer, and while the team managed to stay afloat, there’s no substitute for a proven arm like Iglesias when the game is on the line. Now, with him back on the active roster, Atlanta’s pitching staff gets a huge boost in both production and experience.

The Braves’ medical staff took a cautious approach with Iglesias’ recovery, making sure the shoulder inflammation wouldn’t become a recurring issue down the stretch. That patience should pay off as the season heats up and the race for the postseason intensifies.

Since joining Atlanta, Iglesias has built a reputation as one of baseball’s most reliable closers. He thrives under pressure, keeps his cool when the stakes are highest, and has become a cornerstone of the Braves’ late-inning strategy. His return couldn’t come at a better time, with the team battling in a tight National League race and every win mattering more than the last.

For Braves fans, seeing No. 26 stride in from the bullpen again is a welcome sight. And for anyone who loves the game—or just loves a great comeback story—this is exactly the kind of boost that can define a season.