As the Braves approach a challenging offseason, their to-do list has expanded considerably, particularly with needs in the bullpen, outfield, and rotation. The bullpen has become a top priority, with key reliever A.J. Minter set to explore free agency and Joe Jimenez sidelined for 8-12 months. Additionally, the outfield needs attention following confirmation that Ronald Acuna Jr. won’t be available for Opening Day after suffering his second ACL tear in late May.
The rotation also faces a significant void with Spencer Strider, who underwent UCL repair surgery, expected to miss Opening Day, and possibly more. This leaves the Braves looking for a starting pitcher to anchor the rotation until he returns, putting a potential spotlight back on Max Fried.
Though Braves GM Alex Anthopoulos might be open to revisiting contract negotiations with Fried, MLB Trade Rumors’ recent predictions offer a reality check. They foresee Fried potentially securing a six-year, $156 million deal, with the Chicago Cubs or Los Angeles Dodgers as likely landing spots. Given Fried’s impressive performance history, including a 2.81 ERA across 112 starts over the past five seasons, his value is high, and bidding could become intense if teams like the Cubs or Dodgers go all-in on him.
For the Braves, committing to a six-year deal may be financially unrealistic, given their current obligations and other pressing needs. A five-year offer might be the most the Braves would consider, but even that could be ambitious amid fierce competition from other teams in the market.
