The newly re-acquired Jesse Chavez has had quite the professional career that began all the way back in 2003. Since then, he’s spent 15 years in the majors, playing for nine different teams, and last year, he reached the pinnacle of the sport with the Atlanta Braves, helping them to a World Series out of the bullpen.
However, the now 38-year-old still has one thing left to accomplish on his career bucket list. According to Jon Morosi of MLB Network, Chavez told him that he began his baseball career with two distinct goals — pitch 20 years professionally (he’s in year 20) and pitch until he’s 40.
Jesse Chavez told us on @MLBNetworkRadio that he began his baseball career with 2 goals: to spend 20 years in pro ball and pitch until he's 40.
Well, this is Year 20. He turns 40 in August 2023. He won a World Series ring with the @Braves. And he's still pitching. @MLBNetwork
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) April 30, 2022
Of course, a lot of things could have changed between then and now. Before he latched on with the Braves in 2021, it looked like he may never pitch again in the majors. But not only did he persevere; he was a critical piece to a team that won the World Series, and he looks as sharp as ever in his third stint with the Braves.
Atlanta acquired Chavez a couple of weeks ago in a trade for Sean Newcomb, who was designated for assignment. The trade made a lot of sense for both sides. Newk had run out of chances with the Braves and desperately needed a change of scenery. The Cubs, who are rebuilding, could afford to take a shot on his upside. In return, the Braves reunited with an old friend, and he’s been lights out since returning.
Two days ago, Chavez pitched 2.1 critical scoreless innings against the Mets. It kept the Braves in the game, but it also saved the bullpen amid a double-header. Since returning to Atlanta, Chavez has yet to allow a run in 6.2 innings of work, and it doesn’t look like anything is slowing him down. If he’s still determined to pitch until 40, I don’t see why not he can’t play another season after this one as long as he’s healthy.
You must log in to post a comment.