The Atlanta Braves announced on Thursday night they’ve signed left-handed closer Will Smith to a three-year deal with an option for a fourth. The deal is worth $39 million, the option is for $13 million with a $1 million buyout.
Smith, 30, was given a qualifying offer by the Giants after posting a career-best 2.1 WAR and 34 saves in 2019 for San Francisco. He had a 2.76 ERA, 3.23 FIP, 1.03 WHIP, and struck out 96 batters compared to only 21 walks in 65 1/3 innings. The CAA client was an All-Star for the first time in 2019.
For his career, Smith has a 3.53 ERA, 1.25 WHIP, 8.0 H/9, and 10.8 K/9 over seven seasons and 410 innings.
The Braves – after winning the National League East – strike first in free agency adding the arguably the best reliever. Smith will reunite with former Giants teammate Mark Melancon as the Braves high leverage reliever duo.
