After a slow start, the MLB offseason has really picked up of late, culminating yesterday when the Yankees acquired Juan Soto late last night. The Braves have accomplished a lot since the end of the season, most notably bolstering the bullpen with multiple signings, but there remain several things that must be done, as Alex Anthopoulos works around the clock to patch up the rest of the holes on this roster.
Most are hoping Anthopoulos has at least one more big move up his sleeve, and I expect it to happen eventually, but there are really only three things I need to see before the start of the 2024 campaign.
Bring in at least one starting pitcher
Whether it comes via a trade or free agency, everyone is excited to see who the Braves add to their rotation. Well-known players like Dylan Cease and Tyler Glasnow, two front-line starters who may be traded before the season begins, have been connected to them. Numerous free agent starting pitchers, many of whom are still available, have also been linked to them.
I’m not going to hold my breath on a blockbuster signing or trade. I do think one will come eventually, but the Braves don’t have endless gobs of money to spend like some other teams. One massive misstep could really affect them down the road. They’ve been patient to this point, and I think that’s going to continue. When the right guy becomes available, they’re going to throw him the bag. I’m just not sure that’s going to happen this offseason.
With that being said, adding at least one more starter feels like a must. It doesn’t have to be a marquee name, but one more starter, particularly one with some upside, could really stabilize this group.
A nice lengthy extension
It’s the season of giving, right? Well, let’s hope Alex Anthopoulos is feeling extra jolly this holiday season, because there are a couple of guys I would love to see extended this offseason. The Braves have been masters in this area, and the announcements always come out of nowhere and are incredibly unpredictable. I have a feeling we are going to get another one of those patented blue squares before the start of next season with a message that reads, “(insert player name) has also agreed to donate 1% of his salary to The Atlanta Braves Foundation.”
Max Fried is the clear choice. He has been the Braves staff’s ace for almost five years, and everyone wants him to be a lifelong member of the team. That might not occur, though, if the contract negotiations between Dansby Swanson and Freddie Freeman have taught us anything.
A.J. Minter is a name that I haven’t heard much discussed in relation to these conversations. Entering his final season of contract, the guy has been lights out for the Braves as their setup man. I could definitely see him getting an extension on his contract soon.
