The Ultimate Guide To Craig Kimbrel: Stats, Highlights, And More

Who is Craig Kimbrel?

Craig Kimbrel is a professional baseball pitcher who currently plays for the Los Angeles Dodgers of Major League Baseball (MLB). He is known for his fastball, which has been clocked at up to 104 miles per hour.

Kimbrel was born in Huntsville, Alabama, and attended Calhoun Community College before being drafted by the Atlanta Braves in the 33rd round of the 2008 MLB Draft. He made his MLB debut with the Braves in 2010, and quickly established himself as one of the most dominant closers in the league.

In 2013, Kimbrel was named to the National League All-Star team and won the NL Rookie of the Year Award. He has also been named to the All-MLB Team twice and has won the NL Reliever of the Year Award four times.

Kimbrel is one of the most successful closers in MLB history. He has recorded over 350 saves in his career, and he has a career ERA of 2.11.

Craig Kimbrel

Craig Kimbrel is known for his fastball, which has been clocked at up to 104 miles per hour. He also has a sharp curveball and a changeup.

Kimbrel is a very effective pitcher. He has a career ERA of 2.11 and has recorded over 350 saves.

Kimbrel is a very durable pitcher. He has never missed a start due to injury.

Craig Kimbrel

Conclusion

Craig Kimbrel is one of the most successful closers in MLB history. He is a very effective pitcher who is known for his fastball, curveball, and changeup. Kimbrel is a very durable pitcher who has never missed a start due to injury.

Craig Kimbrel

Craig Kimbrel is a professional baseball pitcher who currently plays for the Los Angeles Dodgers of Major League Baseball (MLB). He is known for his fastball, which has been clocked at up to 104 miles per hour.

• Fastball Phenom: Kimbrel's blazing fastball is his signature pitch.
• Strikeout Machine: He has an impressive career strikeout rate of over 12 batters per nine innings.
• Elite Closer: Kimbrel has established himself as one of the most dominant closers in MLB history.
• Award-Winning Pitcher: He has won the NL Rookie of the Year Award and four NL Reliever of the Year Awards.
• Durable Workhorse: Kimbrel has never missed a start due to injury.
• Postseason Performer: He has a strong track record in the playoffs, with a career postseason ERA of 2.13.
• Team Player: Kimbrel is a valuable asset to any team, contributing both on and off the field.

Craig Kimbrel's exceptional fastball, strikeout ability, and closing prowess have made him one of the most feared pitchers in MLB. His consistency, durability, and postseason success further solidify his status as an elite closer. Kimbrel's contributions extend beyond the mound, as he is also known for his leadership and dedication to his team.

Fastball Phenom

Craig Kimbrel's fastball is one of the most feared pitches in Major League Baseball. It has been clocked at up to 104 miles per hour, and it has helped him to become one of the most successful closers in MLB history.

Kimbrel's fastball is so effective because of its combination of velocity and movement. He is able to throw his fastball with pinpoint accuracy, and he can also make it tail away from right-handed batters. This makes it very difficult for hitters to square up Kimbrel's fastball, and it is a big reason why he has been so successful in his career.

Kimbrel's fastball is a major part of his success as a pitcher. It is a weapon that he can use to get strikeouts, and it is also a pitch that he can use to get out of jams. Kimbrel's fastball is one of the best in the game, and it is a big reason why he is one of the most successful closers in MLB history.

Strikeout Machine

Craig Kimbrel is one of the most dominant strikeout pitchers in Major League Baseball. He has an impressive career strikeout rate of over 12 batters per nine innings, which is one of the highest in MLB history.

Kimbrel's ability to strike out batters is due to his combination of a blazing fastball and a sharp curveball. His fastball has been clocked at up to 104 miles per hour, and his curveball is one of the best in the game. Kimbrel is also able to locate his pitches with pinpoint accuracy, which makes it very difficult for hitters to make solid contact.

Kimbrel's strikeout ability is a major part of his success as a pitcher. He is able to get ahead in the count early, and he can put hitters away with a variety of pitches. Kimbrel's strikeout ability is also a major asset in the late innings, when he is called upon to close out games.

Kimbrel's strikeout ability is a major reason why he is one of the most successful closers in MLB history. He is able to get strikeouts when he needs them most, and he is a major asset to any team that he plays for.

Elite Closer

Craig Kimbrel's status as an elite closer is a testament to his exceptional skills and consistent performance. Several factors contribute to his dominance in this role:

• Control and Command: Kimbrel possesses remarkable control over his pitches, consistently hitting his spots and minimizing walks. This precision allows him to set up hitters and execute his signature strikeout pitches effectively.
• Intimidating Presence: Kimbrel's reputation as a flame-throwing strikeout artist precedes him. His ability to overpower batters with his fastball and sharp curveball creates an intimidating presence on the mound, putting pressure on opposing hitters.
• Clutch Performance: Kimbrel thrives in high-leverage situations, embracing the pressure of closing out games. His ability to maintain composure and execute under intense scrutiny is a hallmark of his elite status.
• Durability and Longevity: Kimbrel's exceptional durability and longevity as a closer are remarkable. He has consistently pitched at a high level over multiple seasons, demonstrating his ability to withstand the rigors of the role and maintain his dominance.

The combination of these facets has solidified Craig Kimbrel's position as one of the most dominant closers in MLB history. His ability to control the game in critical situations, intimidate batters, perform under pressure, and maintain his effectiveness over time sets him apart as an elite performer in his field.

Award-Winning Pitcher

Craig Kimbrel's exceptional pitching abilities have been recognized with numerous prestigious awards, including the NL Rookie of the Year Award and four NL Reliever of the Year Awards.

• NL Rookie of the Year Award (2011): This award honors the most outstanding rookie player in the National League. Kimbrel's remarkable performance in his first MLB season, with 46 saves and a 2.10 ERA, earned him this prestigious accolade.
• NL Reliever of the Year Award (2013, 2014, 2016, 2017): This award recognizes the top relief pitcher in the National League. Kimbrel's dominance as a closer, with his ability to consistently record saves and strike out batters, has made him the recipient of this award on four separate occasions.

Kimbrel's impressive collection of awards highlights his exceptional skills and consistent performance as a pitcher. These accolades serve as a testament to his ability to make a significant impact on the game and contribute to his team's success.

Durable Workhorse

Craig Kimbrel's exceptional durability is a testament to his rigorous training regimen, meticulous self-care, and unwavering dedication to his craft. His ability to maintain peak physical condition and avoid injuries has been instrumental in his consistent performance and longevity as a pitcher.

Kimbrel's durability is a valuable asset to any team he plays for. His ability to take the mound day after day, without missing a start, provides stability and reliability to the pitching staff. This allows teams to count on him in crucial situations and gives them confidence that he will be there to close out games, even in the most demanding stretches of the season.

Furthermore, Kimbrel's durability serves as an inspiration to his teammates and the entire organization. His commitment to maintaining his physical health and well-being sets a positive example for others and fosters a culture of professionalism and dedication within the team.

Postseason Performer

Craig Kimbrel's exceptional performance in the postseason highlights his ability to rise to the occasion when it matters most. His remarkable career postseason ERA of 2.13 is a testament to his composure, skill, and unwavering determination in high-pressure situations.

• Clutch Gene: Kimbrel possesses an innate ability to perform under pressure. In the playoffs, when the stakes are highest, he consistently delivers, showcasing his mental fortitude and ability to execute under intense scrutiny.
• Adaptability and Execution: Kimbrel's adaptability is crucial to his postseason success. He can adjust his pitching style and strategy to counter opposing batters, effectively navigating the challenges presented by different lineups and game situations.
• Team Player: Kimbrel is a true team player, embracing the collaborative nature of the postseason. He works closely with his manager and teammates to develop game plans and strategies, ensuring that he is contributing to the team's overall success.
• Experience and Preparation: Kimbrel's extensive postseason experience has been instrumental in his success. Each playoff appearance provides valuable lessons and insights, which he utilizes to refine his approach and improve his performance.

Craig Kimbrel's exceptional postseason performance is a testament to his unwavering determination, adaptability, and clutch gene. He is a true asset to any team, consistently delivering in the most critical moments and contributing to their success on the grandest stage of baseball.

Team Player

Craig Kimbrel's value extends beyond his exceptional pitching abilities. He is also a true team player, contributing both on and off the field.

• Leadership and Mentorship: Kimbrel is a natural leader in the clubhouse. His experience and success allow him to mentor younger players, providing guidance and support.
• Team Chemistry: Kimbrel is a positive influence on team chemistry. His infectious energy and enthusiasm create a cohesive and supportive environment.
• Community Involvement: Kimbrel actively participates in community outreach programs, representing his team and giving back to the local community.
• Fan Engagement: Kimbrel interacts with fans through social media and public appearances, fostering a strong connection between the team and its supporters.

Kimbrel's contributions as a team player are invaluable. He creates a positive and supportive environment that fosters success both on and off the field. His leadership, mentorship, and community involvement make him a true asset to any team he plays for.

Frequently Asked Questions about Craig Kimbrel

This section addresses common inquiries and misconceptions surrounding Craig Kimbrel's career and achievements.

Question 1: What factors have contributed to Craig Kimbrel's exceptional strikeout rate?

Answer: Kimbrel's remarkable strikeout ability is attributed to his blazing fastball, sharp curveball, pinpoint accuracy, and ability to locate his pitches effectively.

Question 2: How has Kimbrel maintained his dominance and durability as a closer throughout his career?

Answer: Kimbrel's exceptional durability stems from his rigorous training regimen, meticulous self-care, and unwavering dedication to maintaining peak physical condition. His ability to avoid injuries has allowed him to maintain his dominance as a closer over multiple seasons.

Summary: Craig Kimbrel's success is a testament to his exceptional skills, unwavering determination, and commitment to his craft. His contributions both on and off the field make him a valuable asset to any team.

Craig Kimbrel

Craig Kimbrel's exceptional pitching skills, durability, and leadership have established him as one of the most dominant closers in Major League Baseball history. His blazing fastball, sharp curveball, and pinpoint accuracy have made him a strikeout machine, while his resilience and ability to perform under pressure have earned him numerous awards and accolades.

Kimbrel's contributions extend beyond the mound, as he is also a valuable asset to his team and the community. His leadership, mentorship, and community involvement create a positive and supportive environment that fosters success both on and off the field. Craig Kimbrel's unwavering determination and commitment to excellence serve as an inspiration to players and fans alike.