The Atlanta Braves, similar to numerous other teams, are facing crucial decisions regarding their impending free agents. Following a quick elimination by the San Diego Padres in the National League Wild Card, the focus now shifts to the future for this injury-plagued team. The performance of these players could have a significant impact on the Braves’ 2025 season and potentially shape the team for years to come.
To Re-Sign or Not: Two Key Braves Players
Let Go A.J Minter
This does not seem like a fair assumption; however, A.J. Minter may want a good chunk of money. A signing may be deemed unnecessary after an injury this season and after the Braves proved they do not need him as much as one might have thought initially. Raisel Iglesias was wonderful; others also rebounded nicely and formed one of the best bullpens in baseball.
Everyone knows that the Braves’ most significant issue this season was the inability to get hits and runs. Even Marcell Ozuna did not do well in September. Ozuna ended up with only 39 home runs after it seemed like he was a competitor for the Triple Crown until late August. Signing Minter should not be a big deal. However, something was missing from the Braves this season, and that was not the bullpen. The Braves should try to seek a relatively cheap star out of free agency this season.
Yes: Max Fried
Many have assumed that the Braves may not be inclined to sign Max Fried. Why would they need to? They have Spencer Strider, Reynaldo Lopez (albeit with injury problems), and Chris Sale. Do not forget that Spencer Schwellenbach has proved himself a powerful pitcher for Atlanta. However, regardless of injury problems, Fried is very valuable when healthy. With Strider’s elbow surgery, an abundance of issues with Lopez, and back spasms with Sale, perhaps Atlanta will not risk another significant signing. Nevertheless, Fried has shown value and appreciates Atlanta.
Fried has never notched a 200-strikeout season or won a Cy Young. However, Fried proves to be a deadly pitcher who can pitch deep into games. He is most powerful when paired with other great pitchers like Sale and Strider.
Who Else Could Sign Fried?
Another reason why Atlanta should sign Fried is pretty simple. Teams with money, such as the San Francisco Giants, Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Mets, and the New York Yankees, may want to steal Fried away. Especially the Mets and Giants, who both have money to spend in the offseason. Both teams have potent left-handers, meaning they might emphasize right-handers like Fried.
Overall, the Braves must improve in 2025. Of course, their offense remains the biggest problem. However, these pitchers can make a season great or horrific. Regardless of certain things, some pitchers should be signed, while others should not.
Main Photo: Denis Poroy-Imagn Images
