Fansided

Atlanta Braves: 1 trade, 1 signing, 1 prospect for fifth starter role

By Mark Powell

ATLANTA, GA - MAY 24: Brian Snitker #43 of the Atlanta Braves looks on from the dugout during a game against the Philadelphia Phillies at Truist Park on May 24, 2022 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Adam Hagy/Getty Images)
ATLANTA, GA - MAY 24: Brian Snitker #43 of the Atlanta Braves looks on from the dugout during a game against the Philadelphia Phillies at Truist Park on May 24, 2022 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Adam Hagy/Getty Images) /
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TAICHUNG, TAIWAN – MARCH 09: Matt Harvey #43 of Team Italy reacts after pitching at the bottom of the 3rd inning during the World Baseball Classic Pool A game between Italy and Cuba at Taichung Intercontinental Baseball Stadium on March 09, 2023 in Taichung, Taiwan. (Photo by Yung Chuan Yang/Getty Images)
TAICHUNG, TAIWAN – MARCH 09: Matt Harvey #43 of Team Italy reacts after pitching at the bottom of the 3rd inning during the World Baseball Classic Pool A game between Italy and Cuba at Taichung Intercontinental Baseball Stadium on March 09, 2023 in Taichung, Taiwan. (Photo by Yung Chuan Yang/Getty Images) /

Braves rumors: Atlanta could sign Matt Harvey

Matt Harvey is a longtime rival of the Braves, and is familiar with the NL East division as a whole. While he’s struggled on and off the field since his time with the Mets, he’s made quite the impression on MLB teams in the World Baseball Classic, and will likely find a job shortly after the tournament.

FanSided’s Tim Boyle noted Harvey’s success with Team Israel. While he’d be a smart pickup by the Mets, perhaps the Braves could kick his tires as well.

"“The longer Team Italy can stay in the WBC, the better chance Harvey has of getting a contract. He’s currently a free agent but someone Mets fans will want to watch carefully. He may not be a fit to return to Queens at the moment. Now 33 with his next before coming up at the end of the month, could he fit the mold of the once-dominant starter who evolves into something else?”"

Harvey pitched in the minors for the Baltimore Orioles last season. Most assumed he would take on a bullpen role to reach the MLB level again, but after watching him start for Israel and Mike Piazza in the WBC, perhaps it makes sense to let him continue starting.

Pitching in high-leverage situations in the Classic could also help Harvey make an easy transition to regular-season games, as well, rather than starting the season in the minors to get his feet wet.

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