The Atlanta Braves could be among the best teams in baseball once again in 2025.
Injuries certainly hurt the 2024 season, but the Braves will get some important pieces back before 2025 and should shine once again. It will be an interesting offseason that should be full of moves for the Braves.
Atlanta may need to add a new pitcher if ace Max Fried decides to leave. In this scenario, the perfect response could be Texas Rangers All-Star Nathan Eovaldi. He has the chance to return to Texas but likely will opt for free agency, according to USA Today Sport's Bob Nightengale.
"Rangers starting pitcher Nathan Eovaldi can vest a $20 million player option in his contract when he passed the 300-inning threshold the past two seasons, but considering his season, he’ll hit the free agent market," Nightengale said.
Eovaldi has a 3.96 ERA this season in 27 starts. He isn't as young as Fried, but he could be a great option if he decides to sign elsewhere. Eovaldi will be a much less expensive option and also and shined in the postseason.
The right-handed fireballer is the exact type of pitcher a contender will target this offseason on a short-term deal. Atlanta should get involved if Fried opts to leave to help put the rotation over the top in 2025. Atlanta could be a contender with the roster it currently has if it is healthy in 2025. Adding Eovaldi could put it over the top.
More MLB: Braves' $149 million star among top free agents making return tough