Kofi Inkoom
The Atlanta Braves have re-sign Jackson Stephens to a fresh minor league contract, assigning him to their Triple-A team in Gwinnett. After clearing waivers and initially opting for free agency, Stephens ultimately decided to remain with the Braves, although the new deal might include potential opt-out clauses in the future.
Earlier this season, Stephens pitched 3 1/3 innings for Atlanta, conceding one run on five hits and a walk, while striking out two. The 30-year-old right-hander has been part of the Braves organization for the past three years, spending much of his time in Gwinnett.
Since 2022, he has maintained a 3.52 ERA over 69 innings in the majors (3.78 FIP, 4.13 SIERA). Although his 19.7% strikeout rate and 9.5% walk rate are less impressive, he has generally been a reliable pitcher for the Braves. His ERA in Gwinnett has also hovered around the mid-3.00s since 2022.
Originally drafted by the Reds in the 18th round in 2012, Stephens was considered one of Cincinnati’s top prospects through 2018. He pitched for the Reds over two seasons, posting a 4.83 ERA in 63 1/3 innings from 2017 to 2018.
After spending 2019 in the minors, he became a free agent when the Reds let him go. Stephens missed the 2020 season due to its cancellation and then played in the Mexican League in 2021 before joining the Braves before the 2022 season.
While he could have signed a minor league deal with another team, possibly one with a less crowded bullpen, the proximity to home and his familiarity with the Braves organization likely influenced his decision. He will return to Gwinnett with hopes of earning another call-up to the major leagues this summer.