Craig Kimbrel on feelings towards Braves after trade
Many anticipated Craig Kimbrel would be the Braves' closer for years to come, but an offseason trade sent him packing from Atlanta to San Diego.
Kimbrel made his return to Turner Field on Monday for the first time since being traded by the Braves, and talked about his feelings towards the organization before the game.
"I have a ton of great memories here," the Padres closer said. "We were able to do a lot of good things on the field the five years I was here, and I'll never forget those and all the fans that have always been so good to me."
Kimbrel, who turned 27 before the season, was anticipated to be the Braves' long-term closer, but he says he understands the nature of the trade.
"The way that baseball is today, there's moves that are made for organizational purposes. Me and B.J. [Upton] being traded was one of them. That's just how I look at it.
"There's no bitterness towards the organization. I still love a lot of the guys over there, and still have great friendships with the guys and guys in the front office. So, bitterness? No. But when I get out there and pitch tonight, it's going to be exciting. It's going to be a lot of fun."
Monday's game indeed ended up being fun for Kimbrel and the Padres.
After the Padres scored two runs in the top of the 11th inning, Kimbrel retired the side and picked up his 14th save of the season.
(h/t MLB.com)
