When Raisel Iglesias steps back onto the mound this Tuesday, the Atlanta Braves will face a tough roster decision—and one struggling veteran could be the odd man out.
Left-handed reliever Aaron Bummer, who signed a $13 million deal with Atlanta, has been anything but reliable this season. After another shaky outing against the Seattle Mariners on Monday night, the calls for change are growing louder. In his latest appearance, Bummer allowed two hits and a walk in just four batters faced, needing Carlos Carrasco to bail him out of a jam.
"Think there's a decent chance the Braves DFA Bummer on Tuesday when Iglesias returns," posted Scott Coleman of Battery Power. "Much easier option is Carrasco but they might want his rubber arm for the rest of the road trip."
The numbers tell a concerning story. Through the first month of the season, Bummer has faced 23 batters, surrendering seven hits—including three home runs—while striking out just four and walking one. His velocity has noticeably dropped, and the command that once made him a trusted arm in the Braves bullpen has vanished.
"Bummer's velocity drop is concerning, but he's also just not the same pitcher this year as he's been for the Braves in past seasons," noted Fred Owens of HTHB. "Including Sunday's game, it feels more likely he'll allow a run than work a clean inning."
This isn't an isolated incident. The Braves have already shown they're willing to make tough calls—Joel Payamps and José Suarez were both designated for assignment after giving up two runs each against the Tigers on April 30th. Now, with Iglesias returning from injury and the bullpen needing fresh arms, Bummer's spot looks increasingly precarious.
In previous seasons, Bummer was a reliable left-handed weapon for Atlanta. But in 2026, nothing seems to be clicking. With his contract in its final year, the Braves may decide that patience has run out. Whether it's a DFA or a minor league assignment, Tuesday's roster move could mark the end of Bummer's time in Atlanta.
