Braves: 3 free agents to sign and 1 to avoid this MLB offseason

2. Braves can boost their rotations by signing Tyler Anderson

Though he’s not a free agent just yet, starting pitching is going to be in focus for the Braves this offseason as they surely look to try and begin negotiations with ace Max Fried as he’s looking for a new deal. Meanwhile, Atlanta has to like the future of the rotation with how Spencer Strider dominated in his rookie season and with the performance of Kyle Wright.

But beyond that, there are still some questions as Charlie Morton was a mixed bag in 2022 and the jury is still out on Bryce Elder with some up-and-down performances from him this season. That should mean a good look around the league from Atlanta to try and strengthen the overall rotation.

There are some big names available that Atlanta, in theory, could be eyeing this offseason, but they would be wise to look at more budget-friendly (though not necessarily cheap) options. That’s a space Tyler Anderson could fill.

After bouncing around with four teams since 2016, most notably spending four years with the Rockies, Anderson had his breakout campaign in 2022 wit the Dodgers as he earned an All-Star nod and finished the year with a 2.57 ERA, 15-5 record and by far the best season of his career.

Because of his recent success, his price just went up — but the lack of overall track record could make him more than affordable on a short-term prove-it type of deal. That’s the sweet spot for Atlanta and Anderson would slot right in as a No. 3 or 4 option in this rotation.