Craig Kimbrel Bio
Craig Michael Kimbrel is an American professional baseball pitcher who is currently a free agent. He has played in Major League Baseball (MLB) for various teams, including the Atlanta Braves, San Diego Padres, Boston Red Sox, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Los Angeles Dodgers, Philadelphia Phillies, Baltimore Orioles, and Houston Astros. Kimbrel is recognized as a nine-time All-Star, a four-time Reliever of the Year, and a World Series champion from 2018. He has also represented the United States in international competitions.
Early Life and Background
Craig Kimbrel was born on May 28, 1988, in Huntsville, Alabama. He is the son of Mike and Sandy Kimbrel. During his time at Lee High School in Huntsville, Kimbrel excelled in baseball and also played as a quarterback for the football team. His early exposure to sports laid the foundation for his future career in baseball. After high school, Kimbrel attended Wallace State Community College, where he continued to hone his skills as a pitcher. In 2007, Kimbrel had an impressive season, achieving an 8–0 win-loss record and a 1.99 earned run average (ERA) as a freshman. The following year, he recorded a 9–3 record with a 2.88 ERA, striking out 123 batters in 81 innings pitched. His performance in college helped him improve his draft position, leading to his selection in the 2008 MLB Draft.
Path to Baseball
Kimbrel was drafted by the Atlanta Braves in the third round of the 2008 MLB Draft. He made his MLB debut on May 15, 2010, after being called up from the minor leagues. He quickly established himself as a talented closer, earning his first major league save on September 19, 2010, against the New York Mets. Kimbrel’s rookie season was remarkable, as he set a record for saves by a rookie, finishing with 46 saves and winning the National League Rookie of the Year Award in 2011. Kimbrel’s early career was marked by numerous accolades, including being selected as an All-Star in his first full season. He led the National League in saves for four consecutive years from 2011 to 2014 and became known for his dominant pitching style, characterized by a powerful fastball and an effective curveball.
Craig Kimbrel Career
Early Career (2010–2014)
Kimbrel’s early career was highlighted by his time with the Atlanta Braves, where he quickly became the team’s primary closer. In 2011, he was selected to the All-Star Game and set a rookie record for saves. He finished the season with a 4–0 record, a 0.44 ERA, and 40 strikeouts in 20+2⁄3 innings pitched. Kimbrel’s performance earned him the NL Rookie of the Year Award, making him the first unanimous selection since 2001. In 2012, Kimbrel continued to dominate, leading the National League with 42 saves and winning the NL Rolaids Relief Man Award. He finished the season with a 1.01 ERA and was recognized as one of the top relievers in the league. Kimbrel’s success continued in 2013, where he recorded his 100th career save and was named the Delivery Man of the Year.
Breakthrough (2015–2018)
Kimbrel was traded to the San Diego Padres in 2015, where he recorded his 200th career save, becoming the fastest pitcher to reach that milestone. He then moved to the Boston Red Sox in 2016, where he continued to excel as a closer. In 2018, Kimbrel played a crucial role in the Red Sox’s World Series championship, finishing the season with 42 saves and a 2.74 ERA. Kimbrel’s postseason performance included six saves, contributing to the team’s success in the playoffs. After the 2018 season, he declined a qualifying offer from the Red Sox and entered free agency.
Notable Works and Milestones
Throughout his career, Kimbrel has achieved numerous milestones, including being a nine-time All-Star and a four-time Reliever of the Year. He has also led the National League in saves multiple times and is known for his ability to strike out batters at an impressive rate.
Craig Kimbrel Award Nominations
Craig Kimbrel has received multiple nominations throughout his career, highlighting his status as one of the top relief pitchers in Major League Baseball. His consistent performance has earned him recognition among fans and peers alike.
Craig Kimbrel Awards Won
Kimbrel’s accolades include being named a nine-time All-Star and winning the NL Rookie of the Year Award in 2011. He has also received the NL Rolaids Relief Man Award and the Delivery Man of the Year Award. His contributions to the game have solidified his reputation as one of the best closers in baseball history.
Craig Kimbrel Family
Craig Kimbrel is married to Ashley Holt, and the couple has a daughter born in 2017. Kimbrel’s family has been supportive of his baseball career, and he often credits them for his success.
Personal Life
Kimbrel is known for his strong Christian faith and has spoken about its importance in his life. He has two brothers, Alan and Matt, with Matt having played in the Braves minor league system for three seasons. Kimbrel’s personal life reflects his dedication to both his family and his faith.
