The Atlanta Braves have shown their appreciation for veteran reliability, re-signing left-handed pitcher Brian Moran to a minor league contract for the third consecutive year.
This move, finalized on December 17 and reported later by MLB Trade Rumors’ Mark Polishuk, underscores the organization’s value in keeping seasoned players as depth options, even as Moran faces stiff competition for a big-league roster spot.
A Reliable Veteran Returns for Depth
At 36, Moran continues to represent the archetype of a savvy journeyman. He hasn’t seen Major League action since his stint with the Los Angeles Angels in 2022.
The Braves evidently see his experience as an asset, though. This sentiment is reflected in his recent Triple-A performances.
While his 2024 numbers with Triple-A Gwinnett (a 5.91 ERA and a 1.577 WHIP over 45.2 innings) may not jump off the page, they followed a stronger 2023 season, where he recorded a 3.21 ERA and a 1.280 WHIP across 47.2 frames.
The Uphill Battle for a Braves Roster Spot
Despite these ups and downs, Moran’s path back to an MLB bullpen remains an uphill battle. The Braves already boast a solid cadre of left-handed relievers, including Dylan Lee, Aaron Bummer, Angel Perdomo, and Dylan Dodd.
These arms collectively make it challenging for Moran to crack the active roster. Yet, Atlanta’s willingness to retain him year after year signals trust in his ability to step up if needed—a key ingredient in any team’s minor league depth strategy.
A Career Built on Perseverance
Moran’s professional journey began as a seventh-round draft pick by the Seattle Mariners in 2009. His perseverance paid off a decade later when he debuted with the Miami Marlins in 2019.
Across 14 minor league seasons, Moran has built a respectable resume: a 34-29 record, a 3.34 ERA, and 772 strikeouts over 658.1 innings. With 503 of his 507 minor league appearances coming out of the bullpen, he’s carved out a niche as a relief specialist, even dabbling in starting roles on rare occasions, including two starts in 2024 for Gwinnett.
As Moran gears up for the 2025 season, the Braves confidence in his ability to anchor their organizational pitching depth remains evident. Moran’s persistence continues to set an inspiring example for a player who has navigated the ebbs and flows of a long baseball career.
