Braves: 3 free agent options to replace Mike Soroka

Anibal Sanchez

How about bringing in a familiar face in Anibal Sanchez? At this stage, why not?

Back in 2018, Anthopoulos signed Sanchez to a one-year, $1 million contract. The move worked spectacularly for the Braves, as Sanchez posted a 2.83 ERA, a1.08 WHIP and a 7-6 win-loss record through 24 starts. That season helped Sanchez land a two-year, $19 million deal with Atlanta’s rival in the Washington Nationals.

2020 was far from ideal for Sanchez, but you have to take into account that he pitched in 11 games in a truncated campaign. The previous regular-season, Sanchez held a 3.85 ERA, a 1.27 WHIP, 134  strikeouts and 58 walks in 166.0 innings pitched. Sanchez also pitched in three games for Washington that postseason, which ended with the team winning the World Series. Sanchez put up a 2.50 ERA and 1.06 WHIP through those contests.

Perhaps the best option for the Braves to consider is bringing back a pitcher who has familiarity with the team. Sanchez simply makes too much sense.