Braves Contemplate $48 Million Bid for Former Red Sox Pitcher
The Atlanta Braves, known for their strategic maneuvers, are currently contemplating a bold move in the pitching department. The team, which has already made an impactful offensive signing by securing Jurickson Profar for a lucrative three-year, $42 million deal, now faces a critical juncture regarding their pitching lineup.
Pitching Puzzle: Seeking Solutions
With the recent departures of key pitchers Max Fried and Charlie Morton, the Braves find themselves in a precarious position. While the offensive side has seen some attention, the pitching staff remains a significant concern. Despite having Chris Sale leading the rotation and the impending return of Spencer Strider from injury, the team acknowledges the necessity of fortifying their pitching arsenal with another reliable starter.
Potential Target: Nick Pivetta
In light of this pressing need, speculation has arisen around the Braves targeting former Boston Red Sox right-hander, Nick Pivetta. The proposition, put forth by Bleacher Report’s Kerry Miller, suggests that the Braves, under the astute leadership of Alex Anthopoulos, may have a strategic move in mind before the upcoming season kicks off. Notable free-agent pitchers like Jack Flaherty, Andrew Heaney, Max Scherzer, and the aforementioned Pivetta are all part of the discussion.
Pivetta, who delivered a mixed performance in 2024 with a 6-12 record and a 4.14 ERA in 26 starts, brings promise with an impressive strikeout rate of 10.6 per nine innings. His potential to provide valuable veteran innings could significantly bolster the Braves’ pitching rotation as they aim to recover from their previous postseason setback against the San Diego Padres. To regain their competitive edge and secure a stronger position for the upcoming season, adding another reliable arm to their pitching staff seems imperative.
Pivetta’s Path: From Philly to Boston
Commencing his career with the Philadelphia Phillies in 2017, Pivetta later transitioned to the Boston Red Sox in 2020. Throughout his tenure, he has established himself as a dependable middle-to-back-end rotation pitcher, offering stability and experience to any team he represents.
As the winter progresses, all eyes are on the Braves to see if they will extend a substantial offer to Pivetta, potentially amounting to $48 million. This decision could significantly reshape the Braves’ pitching landscape and position them as formidable contenders in the upcoming season.