2) Braves free agent target from the World Series: Justin Verlander
There has been a lot of speculation about the Braves making a huge splash in free agency for one of the short-term, high AAV free agent aces available this winter. Jacob deGrom is one possibility to steal from the New York Mets. Another target for them could be Astros star Justin Verlander. Expected to opt out of his deal as well with Houston, the Braves can pounce on him and have a stud at the front of their rotation for at least another season.
Verlander may have collapsed in his first World Series start but that shouldn’t do a thing to hurt his free agent case. He’s a guy the Mets could even look at as a replacement for deGrom should he decide to sign elsewhere.
It’s pretty unusual for a pitcher nearing 40 to have as much attention on him as Verlander will this offseason. He should easily top the $25 million option the Astros have on him. Will it be the Braves who snag him? They’ve already employed the Upton Brothers in the past. Why not bring in Mr. Kate Upton to complete the trifecta?
Atlanta has created a reputation for themselves which goes against signing Verlander. They lock up young players early on. It’s meant to help them be a sustainable organization. Inking Verlander is the ultimate win-now move and something to explore.