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Padres' Kimbrel becomes first player in MLB history to record 200 saves in first 6 seasons

Jerry Lai / USA TODAY Sports

San Diego Padres closer Craig Kimbrel made MLB history on a familiar mound Monday.

In his return to Atlanta for the first time since being traded April 5, the hard throwing right-hander retired the Braves' lineup in order in the 11th inning to convert the 200th save of his career for the 5-3 win.

Kimbrel, who notched 186 saves over five seasons with Atlanta, became the first player in league history to reach 200 saves in his first six seasons.

"It was definitely different, coming out of the other bullpen, no music," Kimbrel told reporters, "But it turned out pretty cool."

The five-time All-Star recorded four consecutive seasons with at least 42 saves with the Braves, including a career-high 50 in 2013.

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