"The Braves agreed to a minor-league contract with reliever James Karinchak on Monday night. Karinchak was a reliever in Cleveland from 2019 to 2023, and put together some decent seasons. The thing that stands out the most is a massive 36.3% strikeout rate. While that also came with a high walk rate, Karinchak has produced a 3.61 xFIP and 2.2 fWAR in 160+ innings in his career."
"The issue is that Karinchak threw his last major league pitch in 2023. Shoulder issues basically made 2024 a lost season for him, and he was in the minors with the White Sox for only half of 2025. As a result, it seems he is trying to find an opportunity where he can showcase his talents to perhaps get another shot at the majors."
The Braves signed reliever James Karinchak to a minor-league contract during the Winter Meetings. Karinchak posted a 36.3% strikeout rate with Cleveland from 2019–2023, compiling a 3.61 xFIP and 2.2 fWAR across more than 160 innings despite elevated walk rates. Shoulder problems prevented him from pitching in the majors after 2023, and he spent time in the minors with the White Sox for half of 2025. The signing is intended as minor-league bullpen depth with a likely Spring Training invite. If Karinchak regains his previous form, he could provide valuable relief help; otherwise he will likely remain organizational depth in 2026.
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