Let’s be real for a second—Atlanta Braves fans, how long have we been sitting here waiting for that coveted extra starting pitcher? Too long.
The offseason chatter always circles back to this same topic, and here we are again, holding our collective breath to see who could join the rotation.
While nothing concrete has hit the rumor mill regarding trades, there’s a flicker of hope—just a whisper—thanks to some speculation sparked by David O’Brien of The Athletic.
The Cardinals’ Trade Dilemma
Here’s the scoop: The St. Louis Cardinals might be willing to trade some of their starting pitchers. Now, their top priority is offloading All-Star third baseman Nolan Arenado.
If a trade partner for Arenado doesn’t materialize or the Cards refuse to eat a chunk of his hefty salary, they could shift focus to shedding payroll by trading pitchers like Erick Fedde or Steven Matz.
Erick Fedde vs. Steven Matz: Who Fits Better?
Fedde is a fascinating possibility. This guy put up solid numbers in 2024, boasting a 3.30 ERA, a 1.16 WHIP, and 154 strikeouts over 177 1/3 innings. Plus, with just one year left on his deal at $7.5 million, he’s a relatively low-risk, high-reward candidate.
And let’s not forget, Bleacher Report and Jim Bowden were both linking him to Atlanta long before the current whispers began. The Braves could absolutely use a steady presence like Fedde in the middle of their rotation.
Matz, on the other hand, is a bit trickier. Sure, his $12.5 million salary is manageable if St. Louis eats some of it, but his 2024 numbers? Less inspiring. A 5.08 ERA with a 1.44 WHIP in just 12 appearances, plus an IL stint due to a back strain, screams “buyer beware.”
Will the Braves Have a Shot at Either?
The Braves might take a flyer on him if the Cardinals are feeling generous with the salary dump, but Fedde still seems like the better bet.
All in all, Braves fans, keep your ears to the ground. If St. Louis can’t move Arenado, some of these rotation pieces might just become available—and the Braves could be first in line. Stay tuned.
