The Atlanta Braves shored up the bullpen with the acquisition of Kenley Jansen in MLB free agency on Saturday. Jansen will step in as the Braves closer after a successful career with the LA Dodgers in a solid move for the reigning World Series champs. According to reports from Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, the Braves were reportedly interested in different late-inning bullpen arm this offseason. Per Rosenthal, Atlanta and the Chicago White Sox held talks over a potential trade that would see Craig Kimbrel return to the Braves, but nothing ever materialized.

Instead, the Braves landed Jansen on a $16 million deal, the same amount Kimbrel makes for the White Sox. Considering it'd be a shock to see Atlanta dole out $32 million to two bullpen arms, it's safe to consider their pursuit of Kimbrel all but over.

While a reunion with Kimbrel would have been a joy for Braves fans, the team opted to roll with Jansen in MLB free agency in order to avoid having to sacrifice any assets. Considering they're paid the same amount, Atlanta's decision to sign Jansen instead of facilitating the trade for the 33-year-old was a wise one.

Kimbrel had a strong season in 2021, recording 24 saves and maintaining a 2.26 ERA with 100 strikeouts across 59.2 innings. While that type of production is elite at the closer role, Jansen has a track record of success, too, and won't force the team to move any more assets after offloading some key young talent in the Matt Olson trade.

In 2021, Jansen recorded 38 saves for the Dodgers, striking out 86 batters across 69.0 innings, finishing the season with a 2.22 ERA.