The Atlanta Braves may need to implement some major adjustments if they wish to maintain a commendable streak.
The team has made the playoffs for seven consecutive seasons, but if they aim to achieve this once more in 2025, they may encounter a difficult challenge. This offseason, the Braves lost experienced left-hander Max Fried to a new deal with the New York Yankees, and their top pitcher, Spencer Strider, aims to recover from a season-ending surgery in 2024.
Consequently, Joel Reuter from Bleacher Report forecasted that the Braves will add experienced starter Kyle Gibson to assist in managing the workload during Strider’s recovery.
“A dependable option such as Kyle Gibson could serve as the ideal solution to cover the gap until Spencer Strider makes his return from Tommy John surgery, particularly if he is available on a one-year contract,” Reuter stated.
Nonetheless, as the expenses for starting pitchers rise this offseason, Gibson may request more than a one-year deal. Spotrac estimates he will secure a two-year, $26.8 million contract in the future, and his qualifications indicate he might land that kind of agreement elsewhere.
Over 12 seasons in the major leagues, Gibson has recorded a 4.52 ERA and accumulated 1,510 strikeouts, receiving an All-Star selection in 2021. He may not be a primary choice for the Braves, but Gibson has logged a minimum of 30 starts in the last three years, and he had a 4.24 ERA with the St. Louis Cardinals this season, showcasing useful durability for a team that needs to guard against injuries.
Should Gibson join the Braves, he is expected to take the fourth position in the rotation, according to Reuter. That would place him slightly ahead of Grant Holmes, whom Reuter has in the last position, at least until Strider is able to come back.
“Both Grant Holmes and Ian Anderson have exhausted their minor league options, meaning they must secure a spot on the Opening Day roster or risk being placed on waivers and possibly claimed by another team,” he pointed out.
Although the Braves can anticipate a strong comeback from Strider, it appears they are still in need of at least one genuine starter to have a full rotation as they head into the 2025 season. However, bringing in Gibson might boost their confidence that their playoff run will continue for at least another year.
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