Braves Reportedly Not Among Finalists for Craig Kimbrel

If there's one thing about the Atlanta Braves roster that's a glaring concern, it's their bullpen. They've been much better as of late, but they have a lot of young arms you just can't rely on down the stretch.

That's why signing free agent closer Craig Kimbrel, who came up with the Braves and is from Braves Country, made a lot of sense once the draft pick compensation was removed. However, according to Jon Morosi of MLB.com, Atlanta is "not among the finalists" to sign Kimbrel.

I guess the Braves are comfortable riding with Luke Jackson as the closer and having converted starters Sean Newcomb and Touki Toussaint man the setup role with recently acquired reliever Anthony Swarzak.

It was reported less than two weeks ago that the Braves were interested in both Kimbrel and veteran starter Dallas Keuchel after the draft. It appears clear now who they are seriously going after.

Earlier Wednesday, the Chicago Cubs were heavily linked to Kimbrel. That's very interesting considering their current payroll and the financial flexibility the Braves have to meet Kimbrel's asking price.

Maybe the price tag is still too rich for Atlanta's blood, but this appears to be a wasted opportunity for a Braves club that needs bullpen help and is looking to repeat as NL East champs.