The Atlanta Braves face a crucial offseason ahead. After entering 2024 with high hopes, the team struggled throughout the regular season, dealing with disappointing performances and numerous injuries. This offseason is vital for the Braves as they aim to rebuild the roster to meet the expectations they had for 2024. Unfortunately, not only are the Braves not expected to improve, but many analysts are forecasting a decline. ESPN’s David Schoenfield recently confirm that key Braves free agent will leave Atlanta, signing a six-year, $175 million contract with the Boston Red Sox, where he would reunite with his high school teammate, Lucas Giolito.
“Or they could just sign a top-of-the rotation starter. The rotation was solid enough in 2024, ranking seventh in the majors in ERA, but Tanner Houck was the only regular with an ERA under 4.00, and Nick Pivetta is a free agent,” Schoenfield wrote. “None of their starters are left-handed, however, and Fried is a good fit for Fenway Park since he induces grounders so often.”
Max Fried has been a long-time target for the Red Sox, who are clearly focused on adding left-handed pitching. With their top options on the market now limited to Fried and Chicago White Sox starter Garrett Crochet, Fried stands out as the better choice. Not only is he the superior pitcher, but he also offers more stability and wouldn’t require parting with top prospects. For the Braves, losing Fried without bringing in another ace-level pitcher would be a major setback. Given their struggles with pitching depth in 2024, such a loss would be a significant blow.
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