Atlanta Braves: 5 moves to repeat as World Series champions
By Tim Boyle
While the Braves are at it, they should check with the Athletics about a pitcher, too
In discussing a trade with the Athletics centered around Olson, the Braves aren’t hurting themselves by bringing up three other names: Chris Bassitt, Sean Manaea, and Frankie Montas. The first two are free agents after the 2022 campaign. Montas has one more season of control. All three had excellent years in 2021. And while their careers are a little more mixed and none have put together a Cy Young worthy season, all three have the potential to save the Braves rotation.
Starting pitching is a bit of a question for Atlanta. Perhaps more than anything, it’s the depth we have to doubt.
Injuries have taken their toll on the Braves starting rotation in recent seasons. Mike Soroka missed all of last season. Other than Charlie Morton, the elder statements from the 2021 roster, no one was free from missing time.
A bolstered rotation could pay have huge for Atlanta. And if they feel confident enough in what they do have, I would talk to the Athletics about reliever Lou Trivino. A high-leverage righty who saved 22 games for Oakland last year, he’s the kind of reliever the Braves could use in a setup role or even compete for closer duties if Will Smith can’t get the job done.