The Atlanta Braves have a difficult decision to make this winter.
Atlanta’s greatest choice this winter will undoubtedly revolve around pitcher Max Fried. The two-time All-Star and three-time Gold Glove Award winner will be a free agent and one of the top options.
As a result, he will almost certainly face stiff competition for his services. Atlanta may re-sign him, but if not, he will have options in free agency.
New York Mets pitcher Luis Severino could be an excellent fit for the Braves in this situation. He posted a 3.91 ERA in 31 starts with the Mets and rebounded significantly from a disappointing year in 2023 with the New York Yankees.
Severino will cost substantially less than Fried. Spotrac is presently projecting him to sign a three-year contract worth approximately $46 million. Atlanta clearly got a nice look at him competing within the division, and it could make sense to pursue him.
He is only 30 years old and wouldn’t be much of a step down from Fried at a fraction of the price. Atlanta should definitely look to bring Fried back, but if he does leave, Severino wouldn’t be a bad backup.
The Braves had a difficult 2024 season, but improved health and one or two more key players will propel Atlanta back into the World Series debate in 2025.
