Atlanta, GA, September 16, 2025
News Summary
As the Atlanta Braves prepare for the upcoming offseason, General Manager Alex Anthopoulos emphasizes the urgent need for pitching enhancements. With key players in the bullpen potentially leaving via free agency and several pitchers facing injury concerns, the team acknowledges the critical need for a strategic overhaul. The Braves aim to secure at least one frontline starter and experienced depth, while also looking to promising prospects to strengthen their lineup and maintain playoff ambitions.
Atlanta, GA – The Atlanta Braves are placing a significant emphasis on pitching improvements as they approach the 2026 offseason. General Manager Alex Anthopoulos has indicated that addressing pitching will be a primary focus for the team. With closer Raisel Iglesias set to test free agency at the end of the current season, the Braves will need to entirely overhaul their bullpen and solidify their rotation.
In the 2025 season, Atlanta’s starting rotation faced numerous challenges due to injuries and inconsistent performances. Key pitchers like Spencer Schwellenbach, Reynaldo Lopez, and Grant Holmes have raised concerns regarding their health heading into next season. Additionally, AJ Smith-Shawver is expected to miss the entirety of the upcoming season following Tommy John surgery, leaving a sizeable hole in the rotation.
Other pitchers also come with their own health issues; Chris Sale has a lengthy injury history that makes him a risky option. Moreover, Spencer Strider has struggled in his recovery from InternalBrace surgery, creating more uncertainty around the returning talent. Even Joey Wentz, who was claimed off waivers, ranks third among Braves pitchers in fWAR, indicating an alarming need for more reliable arms.
Leading the Braves’ pitching staff, Bryce Elder has accumulated the most innings, yet his profile does not exemplify that of a potential World Series-winning rotation. Currently, the rotation is characterized by a lack of healthy top-end talent and minimal depth, which complicates the team’s championship aspirations.
Looking forward, the Braves will need to seek at least one proven frontline starter and an experienced depth arm to ensure their chances of success in the upcoming season. Without these essential additions, the team could face the consequences of organizational negligence, jeopardizing their effort to qualify for the playoffs for a fourth consecutive year.
Amid these challenges, there are some positive developments within the organization. The emergence of Hurston Waldrep and the presence of other prospects nearing major league readiness provide a glimmer of hope. However, the Braves must not rest on the chance of perfect health and performance from a fragile pitching lineup, emphasizing a prudent investment in starting pitching as a necessity.
Summary
The Atlanta Braves aim to revitalize their pitching staff in preparation for the 2026 season. With a critical review of their current pitchers and a pressing need for enhancement in both the bullpen and rotation, the team’s leadership recognizes that improvements are essential to sustain their competitive edge.
FAQ
What are the Braves prioritizing this offseason?
The Braves are prioritizing pitching improvements, focusing on overhauling their bullpen and acquiring frontline starters for their rotation.
Who is testing free agency at the end of the season?
Closer Raisel Iglesias is set to test free agency at the end of the current season.
What issues did the Braves face in their rotation during the 2025 season?
The Braves faced significant injuries and inconsistent performances among their pitchers, leading to concerns about the health of returning players.
What is expected of AJ Smith-Shawver?
AJ Smith-Shawver is expected to miss the entire 2026 season due to Tommy John surgery.
What are the potential implications if the Braves do not bolster their rotation?
Failure to strengthen their rotation may result in organizational negligence and hinder their pursuit of a fourth consecutive playoff appearance.
Key Features of the Atlanta Braves Offseason Strategy
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Focus on Pitching | Priority on addressing bullpen and rotation issues. |
| Free Agency | Closer Raisel Iglesias to test free agency. |
| Injury Concerns | Rotation heavily impacted by injuries, with several pitchers facing health issues. |
| Emerging Talent | Hurston Waldrep and other prospects showing promise. |
| Need for Depth | At least one proven starter and an experienced arm needed. |
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Additional Resources
- Sports Talk ATL: Braves Offseason Priority
- Fox 5 Atlanta: Local Sports News
- Sports Talk Florida: NHL Expansion in Atlanta
- Sports Illustrated: Falcons Division Prediction
- Sports Talk ATL: Braves Mistake Analysis
- Wikipedia: Atlanta Braves
- Google Search: Atlanta Braves
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Atlanta Braves
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