Braves Secure Relief Pitcher Pierce Johnson to Contract Extension After Contributions in 104-Win Season

Pierce Johnson - Division Series - Philadelphia Phillies v Atlanta Braves - Game Two

(Photo : Elsa/Getty Images) ATLANTA, GEORGIA - Pierce Johnson (#38) of the Atlanta Braves pitches in the seventh inning against the Philadelphia Phillies during Game Two of the Division Series at Truist Park on October 09, 2023 in Atlanta, Georgia.

The Atlanta Braves have made their first offseason move after being eliminated in the 2023 MLB Playoffs in the National League Division Series by the Philadelphia Phillies in four games earlier this month.

The Braves announced they had re-signed relief pitcher Pierce Johnson to a two-year contract worth $14.25 million.

✍️✍️✍️ pic.twitter.com/58Wu55hVwL
— Atlanta Braves (@Braves) October 25, 2023

The 32-year-old was initially expected to become a free agent at the end of the ongoing postseason. He is now slated to earn $7 million in both the 2024 and 2025 MLB seasons, with a club option for 2026 and a $250,000 buyout.

Johnson was acquired by the Braves in a trade with the Colorado Rockies last July for minor league pitchers Victor Vodnik and Tanner Gordon ahead of the recent MLB trade deadline.

The right-hander revitalized his season after losing the closer's position back in Denver earlier this year.

Johnson was stellar for Atlanta

Johnson helped the Braves clinch the best record in baseball in the 2023 regular season with a 104-58 win-loss slate.

During his 24 appearances for the National League East division winners, he showcased an impressive 0.76 ERA, recording 32 strikeouts across 23.2 innings out of the bullpen.

Johnson is pledging to donate 1% of his salary to the Atlanta Braves Foundation. He has previously pitched for the Chicago Cubs, San Francisco Giants, San Diego Padres, and NPB club Hanshin Tigers.

Throughout his career, he has accumulated 12 wins and 15 losses with a 4.04 ERA and secured 13 saves.