The Atlanta Braves have engaged in trade discussions with the Tampa Bay Rays regarding talented pitcher Tyler Glasnow, as the MLB offseason trade talks continue to unfold. While the White Sox have reportedly pulled back on trade talks involving Dylan Cease, attention has shifted to Glasnow, who is considered likely to be traded in the near future.
Glasnow’s situation is unique as he enters the final year of his contract, with a salary of $25 million for the 2024 season. This makes him an attractive option for many teams, given his exceptional talent on the mound. However, the Rays, known for their budget-conscious approach, may be hesitant to commit such a sum, especially for a player with a history of health concerns.
The president of baseball operations for the Rays, Erik Neander, acknowledged ongoing discussions surrounding Glasnow but emphasized that there are no set deadlines or constraints in the negotiations. He explained that events like the MLB Winter Meetings serve as catalysts for discussions, allowing teams to exchange information and either advance or stall talks.
Numerous teams have expressed interest in Glasnow, and the Braves are among those that have explored the possibility of a trade with the Rays. Other notable teams in the mix include the Cubs and Dodgers, with several AL East teams also making inquiries.
Glasnow’s pitching prowess is undeniable, boasting a 3.03 ERA, 2.89 FIP, 12.5 strikeouts per nine innings, and a 137 ERA+ (37% above league average) since 2019. However, his injury history raises concerns, having made only 60 starts over the past five years. His durability came into question, but in the 2023 season, he made 21 starts and pitched 120 innings, a career-high in starts.
For the Braves, who have faced significant injuries in their rotation in recent seasons, the pursuit of a more durable pitching option might be preferable. However, the appeal of Glasnow on a one-year deal without a substantial long-term commitment makes him an intriguing option, potentially fitting within the Braves’ roster strategy. As the MLB offseason progresses, the trade landscape is evolving, and the Braves, coming off their recent World Series victory, are actively exploring avenues to strengthen their pitching staff for the challenges of the upcoming season.
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