Before the start of the offseason, the Brave rotation did not seem like a pressing need, but due to several developments, that is no longer the case.

First of all, it is worth addressing the potential departures of Charlie Morton and Max Fried. Then, Alex Anthopoulos revealed that Spencer Strider wouldn’t be ready for Opening Day. His schedule is unknown, so it’s possible he’ll miss significant time in 2025.

Let’s all call a spade a spade. Chris Sale was healthy for most of 2024, but injuries have plagued him in the past. Reynaldo Lopez has battled fatigue issues and Spencer Schwellenbach has yet to throw a full season’s innings. The rotation has suddenly elevated Anthopoulos’ to-do list this offseason.

The MO of AA is generally to zigzag whenever everyone else is zigzag. Whether it’s a trade or a high-potential free agent signing, Atlanta’s general manager is always playing chess while others play checkers. And its next target could be the desert. According to Athletics, the Diamondbacks could look to trade one of their starting pitchers.

“The Arizona Diamondbacks have emerged as a team drawing significant interest from clubs looking for starters, league sources said at this week’s general managers’ meetings.” Will Sammon and Patrick Mooney will write.

Zac Gallen, Jordan Montgomery and Merrill Kelly will be free agents after the 2025 season, while Eduardo Rodriguez, Brandon Pfaadt and Ryne Nelson will have multiple years of control.

Gallen is the best of the group, one of the best weapons in the game and is expected to make over $14 million through arbitration. Montgomery is coming off a terrible year, but maybe Arizona would eat some of his salary in a potential trade.

Depending on your cup of tea, a Braves trade could come to fruition with the Diamondbacks, but I’d say Montgomery is the more likely candidate. Until last season, he was one of the most consistent starting pitchers in baseball. He’s a low-cost candidate if I’ve ever seen one, who usually attracts Alex Anthopoulos. Contract, track record and lofty outlook seem to fit Braves’ MO

—

Photo: Kevin Abélé/Icon Sportswire