Braves Eyeing Potential Gem in Nick Pivetta Post Jack Flaherty Miss
Amidst the Braves’ roster puzzle, the spotlight shifts to the vacant fifth slot in their rotation. With Spencer Strider’s imminent return alongside established names like Chris Sale, Spencer Schwellenbach, and Reynaldo López, the departure of Max Fried to the Yankees leaves a significant void.
Internal Gaps and External Options
Internal replacements exist, but the pool mainly comprises Triple-A pitchers, raising doubts about their readiness for a regular slot. The trade and free agency avenues remain open, yet the Braves have remained reticent on these fronts during the offseason.
The free-agent landscape boasts Jack Flaherty, a prominent figure following his tenure with the Dodgers. However, the Braves have typically shied away from lavish free-agent deals, hinting at a different strategy.
Nick Pivetta: The Dark Horse
Contrary to conventional expectations, baseball analyst Erik Kratz suggests the Braves might pivot towards Nick Pivetta, the former Red Sox pitcher. Pivetta’s allure lies in being an under-the-radar breakout prospect, attributed to his impressive strikeout rates.
Kratz’s insights hint at the Braves’ low-pressure environment potentially unleashing Pivetta’s latent talent, offering a compelling narrative of untapped potential awaiting realization.
Unveiling Pivetta’s Prospects
Approaching his 32nd year, Pivetta’s career trajectory has yet to witness a standout season. Nevertheless, his knack for striking out batters at an elite rate paints a promising picture, overshadowed only by his vulnerability to home runs—a facet demanding refinement.
While Pivetta declined the Red Sox’s qualifying offer in favor of exploring free agency, his $7.5 million salary last season highlights his value, albeit with the caveat of forfeiting a second-round pick for prospective suitors.
A Stealthy Coup for Atlanta
Should Pivetta don the Braves’ colors, a blend of his potential and the Braves’ nurturing environment could yield a formidable force. The ripple effect across the league underscores the latent threat Pivetta could metamorphose into under Atlanta’s tutelage, signifying a potential steal in the making.