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The Athletic’s Jim Bowden recently interviewed several executives from around Major League Baseball, asking what the league’s greatest need is for each team. For the Braves, starting pitching is everything, especially after Kyle Wright’s injury.
The rotation wouldn’t be an issue if Kyle Wright was healthy, especially if Charlie Morton returns. However, Morton could retire, leaving the Braves with Spencer Strider, Max Fried, and a lot of hope in Bryce Elder, AJ Smith-Shawver, and Hurston Waldrep.
The Braves are searching for a starting pitcher to replace Kyle Wright, who will miss the entire 2024 season due to a shoulder injury.
Furthermore, Fried missed the majority of 2023 due to an elbow injury. Perhaps rest was all he needed, but his health is not guaranteed.
If the Braves are serious about winning another World Series, they will need to add at least one starting pitcher.
In terms of the Braves’ division rivals’ top priority:
Phillies: Re-sign Aaron Nola or acquire a starting pitcher to replace him.
Marlins: A president of baseball operations and a general manager.
Mets: Starting pitching and bullpen depth.
Nationals: A veteran starting pitcher and a corner outfield bat.
With the Phillies’ deep pockets, it’s difficult to imagine Aaron Nola leaving in free agency, but money talks, and many teams will be vying for his services. Nobody knows that nothing is guaranteed in free agency better than the Braves, who have seen two franchise cornerstones walk in consecutive offseasons.
Finding a President of Baseball Operations and a General Manager would be critical in making offseason decisions, in my opinion. The Marlins should act quickly on this.
The Mets are the most dangerous wild card in free agency. They’ve demonstrated their willingness to outspend everyone, but they’ve also stated that 2024 will be a rebuilding year. That doesn’t sit well with me. Men like Cohen can’t stop themselves, which is a good thing. Nobody should criticize owners for their willingness to spend money to improve their team.
The Nationals came alive at the end of the season, and it won’t be long before their first-round pick, Dylan Crews, makes his debut. With the right additions, they could be a contender to make the playoffs next year.
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