The Atlanta Braves are gearing up for an offseason full of tough decisions and big opportunities. With several starting pitchers likely leaving in free agency and Spencer Strider sidelined after Tommy John surgery, the team is exploring options to strengthen its rotation. One name making waves? Two-time Cy Young Award winner Blake Snell.
Pitching Woes Loom as Braves Face Uncertain Rotation
The Braves fell short of expectations in 2024, a season marked by injuries and inconsistency. Their starting rotation is now in flux, with Max Fried and Charlie Morton testing free agency waters. Losing two key arms in the same offseason would be a blow to any team, especially for one with playoff aspirations.
Without Fried and Morton, the Braves’ rotation looks shaky at best. Chris Sale and Reynaldo López, while capable, can’t carry the load alone. Prospects like Spencer Schwellenbach and Grant Holmes show promise but lack the experience needed for sustained success.
The uncertainty makes Snell an enticing option. His dominant second half of 2023 reminded everyone why he’s one of the best in the game.
Why Blake Snell Makes Sense for Atlanta
Blake Snell’s career has been a rollercoaster, but when he’s on, few pitchers compare. Spotrac projects Snell to command a five-year, $131 million deal this offseason. For a team like Atlanta, that’s a hefty investment but one that could pay dividends.
Here’s what Snell brings to the table:
- Elite second-half performance: After a rocky start to 2023 (6.31 ERA before the All-Star break), Snell turned things around. In his final 12 starts, he posted a stellar 1.45 ERA with 103 strikeouts.
- Proven ace status: With two Cy Young Awards and an All-Star appearance under his belt, Snell has the pedigree to lead a rotation.
- Playoff experience: He’s been there before, and his presence would bring much-needed stability and confidence to Atlanta’s postseason push.
The Braves have some financial wiggle room with Morton and Fried off the books. Their combined 2023 salaries of $35 million could be redirected toward signing a marquee pitcher like Snell.
What the Braves’ Rotation Could Look Like
If the Braves land Snell, their rotation would undergo a significant transformation. Imagine a top three featuring Snell, a healthy Spencer Strider, and veteran Chris Sale. That’s a trio capable of dominating any lineup.
The remaining spots could go to López and Anderson, with Schwellenbach and Holmes providing depth. Such a rotation wouldn’t just fill the void left by Morton and Fried; it could elevate Atlanta back into serious contention.
The Risks of Going All-In
While adding Snell sounds appealing, it’s not without risks. The lefty’s first-half struggles in 2023 highlighted concerns about consistency. At 31, there’s also the question of how his performance will hold up over the length of a five-year deal.
Then there’s the budget factor. Committing $131 million to one player could limit Atlanta’s ability to address other needs, such as bolstering the bullpen or upgrading the outfield.
Still, the Braves need to make bold moves if they want to stay competitive in an increasingly tough NL East. Teams like the Phillies and Mets aren’t standing still, and Atlanta can’t afford to either.
What Happens If Snell Signs Elsewhere?
If Snell proves too pricey, Atlanta will need a backup plan. The free-agent market includes several mid-tier options who could fill out the rotation. Names like Sonny Gray or Eduardo Rodríguez might not excite fans the way Snell would, but they could be more cost-effective solutions.
The Braves could also explore trade options. Teams looking to rebuild might be willing to part with an established arm for the right package of prospects. This approach would preserve payroll flexibility while addressing the rotation’s immediate needs.
One thing’s for sure: The Braves can’t afford to stand pat. They need pitching, and they need it now.
Atlanta has a proud tradition of dominant rotations, from the Maddux-Glavine-Smoltz era to more recent success with Fried and Strider. Signing Blake Snell would be a bold move, but it’s one that could keep the Braves in the mix for years to come.
