Atlanta Braves news and notes from Wednesday
With the other needs generally filled (aside from perhaps some bullpen depth), the discussion within Braves Country has focused in on starting pitcher as the clear remaining need this offseason for the Braves. Some look at their solid (although injury-riddled) rotation depth and see no need, but the frequency of pitching injuries in the modern game begs to differ. I additionally would not be surprised to see Bryce Elder traded this offseason, as a fringy major league starter like that has substantially less value without minor league options. Acquiring a starter is tricky though, especially of the impact variety, which is the stated goal for the Braves. It almost has to be via trade or substantial free agent contract, which would likely cost the Braves the 26th pick in the 2026 draft. This becomes a complicated analysis of player quality, contract value, and asset value of prospects and draft capital. Handing out the type of contracts that free agents are likely to get and giving up the draft pick was never an appealing option to me for the available options this offseason outside of Dylan Cease. The trade market is always hard to read though, with availability and prospect cost often difficult to ascertain from the outside. That said, I think this front office has generally displayed good process and good results on the trade market, so I am inclined to trust them with another one here over a hefty contract on one of the available starters.
Braves News
We continue looking at prospects that could pique the Braves’ interest with the 9th pick in the upcoming draft, this time with Tyler Bell.
The Braves brought in catching savant Martin Maldonado as a Special Assistant for Major League Operations, adding another savvy operator to the coaching realm.
We continue to finish up our annual player review series with Austin Riley’s frustrating 2025.
MLB News
Former Braves’ farmhand Alan Winans has been granted his release by the Yankees to join the NBP.
The Mets signed reliever Luke Weaver to a 2 year $22 million deal.
Category: General Sports
