The Atlanta Braves, having missed out on signing Aaron Nola, are actively exploring the free-agent market for pitching talent, particularly targeting Minnesota Twins ace Sonny Gray, according to MLB Network’s Jon Morosi. Although Nola chose to re-sign with the Philadelphia Phillies, the Braves, under the leadership of general manager Alex Anthopoulos, remain determined to bolster their roster.
The Braves, reigning champions of the National League East, are looking to enhance a pitching rotation that faced challenges in the previous season. The team’s overall staff recorded a 4.14 ERA, ranking 15th in MLB. Despite this, the Braves boasted a league-best 104-58 record, ultimately succumbing to the Phillies in the National League Divisional Series.
Sonny Gray, 34, emerges as a viable target for the Braves, especially given his impressive performance in the recent season. Finishing as the runner-up in the American League Cy Young voting, Gray concluded with an 8-8 record, a 2.79 ERA, and a 1.15 WHIP, along with 183 strikeouts in 184 innings.
Currently, the Braves’ pitching roster features standout performers such as Spencer Strider and the veteran Charlie Morton, who was re-signed earlier in free agency. With Bryce Elder and Max Fried also in the mix, the team has a strong rotation. However, the pursuit of Gray signals the intention to solidify their pitching further.
Gray would likely slot in as the Braves’ No. 2 starter behind Spencer Strider, contributing additional strength to the rotation. The key consideration remains the cost of signing Gray, potentially approaching the annual salary of $24.5 million earned by Nola. Nevertheless, the Braves, having recently cleared $6 million in a trade with the Chicago White Sox, possess the financial flexibility to accommodate a pitcher of Gray’s caliber, reinforcing their commitment to building a competitive team.
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