The Atlanta Braves now face fewer options for finding the perfect starting pitcher after losing Charlie Morton, so the front office will focus on shaping the roster with an emphasis on pitching. They are opting to defer offseason additions in a bid to lower costs, the speculation is building as Spring Training draws near.
With pitchers and catchers set to report in just over a month, the Braves find themselves in a crucial moment. The recent moves, including the exit of catcher Travis d’Arnaud, have left a noticeable gap in the lineup. Most pressing is the question of who will step up to fill Morton’s shoes, especially now that he has signed a one-year, $15 million deal with the Baltimore Orioles.
Orioles sign RHP Charlie Morton to 1-year deal. pic.twitter.com/IPYvcT5ivy
— MLB (@MLB) January 3, 2025
There are still some intriguing options available in free agency that could help shore up the Braves’ rotation. One candidate is Kyle Gibson. The seasoned 37-year-old has proven to be an innings-eater, much like Morton. Although Gibson’s recent performance hasn’t matched Morton’s. He posted a 4.68 ERA in the last three years compared to Morton’s 4.06, and his experience could make him a solid addition if he’s willing to sign for less than $15 million.
Another possible name is Jakob Junis. Junis made a splash after being moved to the starting rotation in Cincinnati last year. Junis posted a stellar 1.55 ERA in his six starts, hinting that he could be a hidden gem. If the Braves are in the market for a left-handed pitcher to complement Chris Sale, they might consider Jose Quintana. After a strong 3.75 ERA season, Quintana could offer stability, although concerns about his 4.56 FIP might make the Braves cautious in pursuing him.
Atlanta Braves Could Look For An Alternative
If the Braves decide not to pursue any additional pitchers, they would likely field a rotation. The list of probables includes Chris Sale, Reynaldo Lopez, Spencer Schwellenbach, Grant Holmes, and one of Ian Anderson, A.J. Smith-Shawver, or Bryce Elder.
Play No. 4 of 2024: Where does Michael Harris II's home run robbery rank in baseball history? 😮 pic.twitter.com/VnT65feKxG
— MLB (@MLB) December 14, 2024
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Holmes’s case is particularly interesting. He’s out of minor league options, meaning his performance in Spring Training will be critical to securing his spot on the Opening Day roster. This is especially relevant given Spencer Strider’s expected absence for much of April due to elbow surgery.
Once Strider is back, the rotation could take on an even more formidable look. It could possibly feature Sale, Strider, Lopez, Schwellenbach, and either Anderson, Smith-Shawver, or Elder. This lineup has the potential to be one of the best in baseball, particularly if Sale, Lopez, and Schwellenbach can continue to exceed durability expectations from last season. However, the uncertainty around the current roster begs the question: is it wise for the Braves to enter the season without additional insurance through offseason acquisitions?
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