The Atlanta Braves strengthened both their bullpen and defensive depth, finalizing a one-year, $16 million agreement to retain closer Raisel Iglesias; and completing a trade with the Houston Astros to bring in two-time Gold Glove winner Mauricio Dubón. In exchange, Atlanta sent infielder Nick Allen to Houston.
Iglesias just finished a four-year, $58 million deal; the 35-year-old right-hander posted a 3.21 ERA with 29 saves in 2025 In his two previous seasons with the Braves, he held a 1.95 ERA and 34 saves in 2024, and a 2.75 ERA with 33 saves in 2023. Since transitioning to a full-time closing role in 2017, Iglesias ranks near the top of MLB relievers in both WAR and saves. Before joining Atlanta at the 2022 trade deadline, he pitched for the Reds and Angels after signing with Cincinnati out of Cuba in 2014. General manager Alex Anthopoulos said of Iglesias: “We knew we needed to address closer one way or the other and who better than somebody we know. He wanted to be here. His first choice was to be back in Atlanta. I’m glad we were able to get it done.”
The Braves also added Dubón, who earned Gold Gloves in 2023 and 2025. The 31-year-old played at least 15 games at second base, shortstop, third and all three outfield spots last season, logging 133 total appearances while hitting .241 with seven home runs and 33 RBIs. Dubón is arbitration-eligible and under team control through 2026. Anthopoulos said Dubón’s role will hinge on additional offseason moves. “I told him I don’t know what your role is going to be yet, but the fact that we have the flexibility to play him all over … he’s just a good piece,” he said.
Meanwhile, the 27-year-old Allen was sent to Houston after four seasons in the MLB. He posted a .221 average with eight stolen bases in 2025, appearing primarily at shortstop, where he was previously a Gold Glove finalist.
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