Atlanta Braves right-handed reliever Jason Grilli will take over as the closer following the trade of Craig Kimbrel.
Manager Fredi Gonzalez also announced Monday that right-hander Jim Johnson will be used in a setup role and will be the backup closer if Grilli needs a day off.
In a blockbuster trade on the eve of Opening Day, the San Diego Padres acquired Kimbrel and outfielder Melvin Upton Jr. from the Braves on Sunday. Kimbrel led or tied for the National League lead in saves in each of his four seasons as closer. Last year, he went 47-for-51 on save chances and posted a 1.61 ERA.
Both Grilli and Johnson have closer experience.
Grilli was an All-Star closer for the Pittsburgh Pirates in 2013 with 33 saves. He has 50 career saves.
Johnson was an All-Star closer for the Baltimore Orioles in 2012 when he had 51 saves. He followed up that season with 50 saves and has 124 career saves.