Braves pitcher Joe Jiménez is anticipated to be out for a significant part of the 2025 season, potentially the entire year, due to surgery aimed at fixing cartilage damage in his left knee.

The Atlanta Braves confirmed on Monday evening that Jiménez is likely to be sidelined for roughly eight to twelve months following the procedure that took place last week.

Jiménez was poised to be one of Atlanta’s leading setup pitchers for the next season. The 29-year-old right-handed player finished the 2024 season with an impressive 2.62 ERA and recorded three saves. He also reached personal bests, having pitched 68 2/3 innings over the course of 69 appearances.

The knee surgery comes about a year after the Braves committed to Jiménez by signing him to a three-year deal worth $26 million on November 2, 2023. Jiménez, who launched his major league career playing six seasons for the Detroit Tigers, has emerged as one of the most effective relievers for the Braves over the past two years.

His journey to the Braves began when the team traded for him before the 2023 season, giving up two minor league prospects to acquire him from Detroit. Notably, Jiménez was selected as an All-Star during his tenure with the Tigers in 2018.

Overall, Jiménez’s injury will significantly impact the Braves’ bullpen strategy moving forward, and his absence will be felt as the team prepares for the upcoming season.