Michael Soroka’s 2024 journey might just be the baseball comeback story that no one saw coming. It was a year that started in disarray but ended with a hint of what could still be a bright future for the 27-year-old right-hander. Now a free agent, Soroka presents a low-risk, high-reward opportunity for teams like the Atlanta Braves, who might see a golden chance to rehome a former ace at a bargain price.
The year didn’t begin kindly to Soroka. After a tumultuous offseason trade to the White Sox, he struggled mightily in their rotation. His 6.39 ERA and 6.76 FIP in nine starts painted a grim picture. His strikeout and walk rates were mirror images—rarely a good sign—and his penchant for allowing home runs added to the misery. For a White Sox team that went on to set a new low with 121 losses, even a spot on that roster seemed tenuous.
But then, the bullpen happened. Soroka’s midseason move to a relief role wasn’t just a course correction but a revelation. Over 36 innings, he posted a stellar 2.75 ERA. His strikeout rate soared from a dismal 12.4% as a starter to a jaw-dropping 39% as a reliever. This is the second-highest rate among all relievers who faced at least 150 batters, trailing only Athletics closer Mason Miller. Walks remained an issue, but his newfound ability to punch out batters at an elite level overshadowed that flaw.
One pivotal adjustment fueled his turnaround: ditching the sinker that had defined his game during his All-Star-caliber 2019 season. After enduring years of injuries, including multiple Achilles tears, the pitch had lost its bite. Soroka embraced his four-seam fastball instead, increasing its usage and velocity. His average heater jumped from 92.5 mph as a starter to 94 mph in relief, providing a sharper, more effective weapon.
Braves Could Boost Bullpen With Soroka
Soroka’s resurgence as a reliever couldn’t come at a better time for the Braves, who find themselves with two open bullpen spots heading into 2025. With their closer role locked down by Raisel Iglesias and setup duties handled by Pierce Johnson and Dylan Lee, they don’t need Soroka to handle high-leverage situations immediately. He could instead slide into a middle-relief or swingman role, where his stuff would thrive and further build his confidence.
Given his injury history and the mixed results of his 2024 campaign, Soroka isn’t likely to command a hefty contract. A one-year, prove-it deal could work perfectly for both sides, allowing Soroka to reestablish his value while the Braves add a potential bullpen weapon at a minimal cost.
The Braves know better than most what Soroka is capable of when he’s healthy and confident. Suppose Alex Anthopoulos can bring him back to Atlanta. In that case, it might just be the perfect environment for Soroka to continue his comeback—and for the Braves to cash in on one of the offseason’s most intriguing bargains.
