Strategic Maneuvering: Braves Eye Diamondback’s Acquisition Post Burnes’ Signing
In the wake of the Arizona Diamondbacks securing the services of top-tier pitcher Corbin Burnes, the Atlanta Braves find themselves at a strategic crossroads in their offseason maneuvering. Burnes’ lucrative six-year, $210 million deal, with a potential opt-out clause after two years, has reshaped the pitching landscape. The staggering annual price tag of $35 million for Burnes has sparked speculation that the Diamondbacks might be inclined to offload another high-priced asset, namely left-hander Jordan Montgomery, whose contract stands at $22.5 million.
A Potential Deal in the Making: Braves and Diamondbacks in Talks
The Diamondbacks have been actively seeking to part ways with Montgomery, setting the stage for a possible transaction with the Braves. Industry insiders have floated various scenarios, with predictions pointing towards a potential swap involving Montgomery heading to Atlanta in exchange for either two minor league pitchers or the promising Ian Anderson. Notably, the Diamondbacks have signaled their willingness to offset a portion of Montgomery’s salary to facilitate his departure, mirroring a similar financial maneuver in the Braves’ acquisition of Chris Sale last year.
Assessing the Acquisition: Montgomery’s Fit in the Braves’ Rotation
Should the proposed deal materialize, Montgomery would offer the Braves a seasoned left-handed presence to fortify their pitching rotation, following Max Fried’s departure to the Yankees. Despite a lackluster performance in 2024, marked by a concerning 6.23 ERA, Montgomery’s track record and postseason pedigree underscore his potential value as a rebound candidate. With a solid history of a 3.48 ERA over two previous seasons and a commendable 2.63 ERA in postseason appearances, Montgomery presents an enticing buy-low opportunity for the Braves.
Strategic Calculations: Evaluating the Potential Upside
The prospect of securing Montgomery at a reduced cost, potentially below $20 million if the Diamondbacks subsidize a portion of his salary, positions the Braves favorably to capitalize on his rebound potential. His postseason success and experience as a World Series champion bring a wealth of intangible benefits to the Braves’ pitching staff. Furthermore, the acquisition of Montgomery would provide the Braves with valuable pitching depth, essential for navigating the rigors of a demanding MLB season where rotation flexibility is key.
Looking Ahead: Braves’ Pitching Prospects Post Montgomery’s Potential Inclusion
In contemplating the implications of integrating Montgomery into their rotation, the Braves stand to bolster their pitching arsenal with a seasoned arm capable of complementing their existing talent pool. Whether the final deal involves minor league prospects or established players, the strategic move underscores the Braves’ proactive approach to fortifying their pitching corps. As the negotiation unfolds, the potential addition of Montgomery looms as a pivotal step in shaping the Braves’ pitching strategy for the upcoming season, setting the stage for a transformative pitching lineup by midseason.