The Atlanta Braves will aim to move past their disastrous 2024 season this winter, but challenges are inevitable. Alex Anthopoulos, known for locking in his star players before they hit free agency, faces a unique situation with Max Fried, whose contract is nearing its end. Unlike Freddie Freeman and a few others, it’s rare for key Braves players to reach this stage without an extension.
Fried, 30, is set to be one of the top pitchers in free agency. With strong demand for quality arms, he is expected to secure a significant contract. Spotrac projects his annual value at $22.7 million, which could lead to a six-year deal worth $136 million. While this is a reasonable figure for a pitcher of Fried’s caliber, the Braves’ typical approach to contracts suggests he may sign elsewhere. Given Fried’s Los Angeles roots and his high school connection to Jack Flaherty, the Dodgers appear to be leading contenders.
Should Atlanta decline to meet Fried’s salary demands, their rotation will have a significant void, especially with Charlie Morton likely retiring. While Spencer Strider, a potential Cy Young contender, is expected to return in 2025, the loss of both Fried and Morton would leave a glaring need in the rotation. It raises the question: what will the Braves’ pitching staff look like next season?
Projected Braves starting rotation if Max Fried walks in free agency
The Braves are likely to pursue one or two additional starters in free agency, even if they don’t re-sign Fried. There are more affordable alternatives available, including potential short-term deals with seasoned pitchers. They could consider taking a chance on Justin Verlander for a year or target former Mets pitchers like Luis Severino or Jose Quintana. While these options seem feasible, the Braves may also choose to promote from within.
A.J. Smith-Shawver seems to be the frontrunner for Brian Snitker’s Game 1 start in the Wild Card Round, indicating that he has edged out other candidates like 2023 All-Star Bryce Elder and Ian Anderson for the No. 6 starter role in the organization. Although his postseason performance was less than stellar, Smith-Shawver has showcased promising talent and could be ready to contribute by next season.
The Braves can be confident in their top four starters. Spencer Strider and Chris Sale form a formidable 1-2 duo, assuming they both maintain good health. Reynaldo Lopez has been impressive with a 1.99 ERA over 135.2 innings, showing he has found his rhythm in Atlanta, despite some skepticism about his consistency. Meanwhile, Spencer Schwellenbach emerged from a crowded field to secure the fifth starting position this season, finishing strong with a 3.35 ERA and 127 strikeouts in 123.2 innings during his rookie year.
If the Braves can bring in a reliable veteran to fill that fifth spot, they shouldn’t have too many concerns. While Fried has been exceptional throughout his eight seasons in Atlanta, the Braves can rationalize a more cautious approach, even though a team of their caliber might feel guilty about being frugal.
Leave a Reply