How Braves might address rotation concerns
ly isn’t a big deal. But when a pitcher has a shoulder problem, far too often it’s a huge deal.
In fact, a little more than eight months later, the Braves are still dealing with the lingering effects of this shoulder ailment. Wright won’t be available again before the 2025 season. His absence is fueling the rotation concerns the Braves face as they enter this offseason knowing the upcoming season could also be Max Fried’s last in Atlanta.
Charlie Morton is waiting to learn whether the Braves will exercise his $20 million option for the 2024 season. If Morton returns, he would join Fried, Spencer Strider and Bryce Elder to fill four of the rotation’s five spots. If he doesn’t return, Atlanta would be staring at two rotation voids for ‘24 and possibly three for ‘25 if Fried ends up signing elsewhere next offseason. [Editor’s note: The Braves have since exercised Morton’s $20 million option.]
Still, while Fried’s future has to be factored into every decision, the Braves don’t necessarily have to address his potential departure this offseason.
