The Atlanta Braves face a critical offseason decision as star left-hander Max Fried attracts significant interest across the league. While Fried has been a cornerstone of the Braves rotation, his rising market value could push him out of Atlanta’s reach. Spotrac lists his current market value at just under $23 million annually, but many believe the final figure could approach $30 million AAV—well above the Braves’ comfort zone.
Atlanta’s front office, led by Alex Anthopoulos, has shown a knack for adaptability, and the rotation remains solid even if Fried departs. Chris Sale’s incredible 2024 campaign—capped by a likely NL Cy Young Award—underscores the rotation’s strength.
Reynaldo López, a savvy midseason pickup, proved to be another Anthopoulos success story, while veteran Charlie Morton could return as a stabilizing presence. Add the rise of Spencer Schwellenbach, one of baseball’s most exciting young arms, and the Braves appear well-positioned for life after Fried.
Garrett Crochet Is Looking Like the Braves Backup Plan to Max Fried
However, losing Fried would leave a significant gap that Anthopoulos may look to fill with another bold move. Enter White Sox ace Garrett Crochet. Rival executives believe Atlanta is a prime candidate to land Crochet if Chicago opts to trade him. One MLB insider said, “The Sox would rather send him to the NL, and Atlanta could be an ideal long-term fit for Crochet.”
Crochet, who boasts electric stuff when healthy, would be a compelling addition to the Braves’ staff. His strikeout-heavy arsenal rivals Fried’s and could potentially elevate Atlanta’s rotation to another level. However, acquiring Crochet won’t be simple. The White Sox are rebuilding, and Crochet is a coveted asset. ESPN’s poll of MLB executives named the Braves and Mets as frontrunners, with New York edging Atlanta by one vote.
The Mets, armed with a deeper farm system and a wealth of hitting prospects, may have the upper hand. For Atlanta, crafting a competitive trade package might mean dipping into their major league roster—a high price for a team with championship aspirations. Still, Anthopoulos has never shied away from bold moves, and Crochet’s talent could make him worth the gamble.
While Max Fried’s future remains uncertain, one thing is clear: the Braves aren’t standing still. Whether they retain Fried or pivot to an aggressive pursuit of Crochet, Atlanta’s front office is determined to keep the team in contention for years to come.
