He is one of the most accomplished relievers in Atlanta Braves history and aims to continue his impressive career with the team. However, the 31-year-old underwent left hip surgery in August, ending his season and possibly marking the end of his tenure with the Braves, as he will be a free agent this winter. Despite this, the surgery was crucial; Minter had struggled with hip issues for years, and his lower back began to suffer as a result. “My back had to compensate for my hip,” he explained. “This year, with the back and hip problems, my performance declined. I could still pitch, but I was in severe pain. I knew I needed to fix it because I wasn’t helping the team pitching at only 80%. We have others in the bullpen who can cover the workload.”
Minter’s goal is to recover and be ready for the next season, though he might end up with a different team, which would conclude a remarkable period with the Braves. Since his debut in 2017, Minter has made 384 appearances for Atlanta, the third-highest total for a reliever in franchise history, trailing only Gene Garber and Mark Wohlers. He’s a six-time division champion and a key part of the “night shift” bullpen that contributed to the 2021 World Series victory. Manager Brian Snitker has frequently praised Minter’s contributions, noting how challenging it has been to replace him. “He’s been a vital part of our bullpen for years,” Snitker said. “He helped us win a world championship and all the divisions. He’s always been someone who checks in and doesn’t want to be out. He’s done a tremendous job, and I hope he returns to full strength.”
Minter hopes his Atlanta story isn’t over. “My time here has meant everything,” he said. “The Braves took a chance on me despite my Tommy John surgery. They had faith in me, and I was promoted quickly. I’ve had ups and downs, but I’ve learned a lot and been part of something special. My focus is on getting healthy this offseason and hopefully coming back here. Free agency is a reality, but it’s an opportunity to improve and help the organization win a World Series.”
Minter is one of the few players remaining from the 2018 Braves, a team that began the franchise’s recent resurgence. Along with Ozzie Albies, Ronald Acuña, and Max Fried, Minter has seen both struggles and success, including a rough 2019 season due to a shoulder injury and a stint in the minors in 2021 before contributing to the World Series win. Reflecting on his career, Minter acknowledges how much he has grown professionally and personally. “When I first came up, I had a lot of maturing to do,” he said. “I started as a young player and now feel like I’ve grown into a more experienced person. It’s cool to see how far I’ve come.”
If he moves on, Minter will remember his time with the Braves fondly. “Looking back, I’ll remember the success we had,” he said. “From 2017 to now, we’ve been winning divisions and going to the postseason. It’s been special, and I’m grateful to be part of it. This organization has taught me how to be a winner, and I hope to continue that wherever I go. I owe a lot to the Braves.”
Minter will use crutches for about six more weeks and plans to start a throwing program in January, aiming to be ready for the season’s start. Though he’s aware of the free agency aspect, he’s focused on a long-term career. “I’m looking to pitch for another eight or nine years, hopefully like Jesse Chavez,” he said. Chavez, now 41, has had multiple stints with the Braves and serves as a mentor to younger players like Minter. “The timing of the injury is unfortunate, but it’s also a blessing in disguise,” Chavez said. “Taking care of it now can prevent future issues. Minter has a bright future, and I’m confident he’ll have a strong second half of his career.” Minter will enter the offseason with a career ERA of 3.28 over 348.2 innings and a 422:123 strikeout-to-walk ratio.
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