Updated · The Atlanta Journal Constitution · Aug 4
Braves Miss Playoff Starter at Deadline as NL Rivals Add 5 Rotation Arms
Updated
Updated · The Atlanta Journal Constitution · Aug 4
Braves Miss Playoff Starter at Deadline as NL Rivals Add 5 Rotation Arms
3 articles · Updated · The Atlanta Journal Constitution · Aug 4
Summary
Tyler Mahle emerged as Atlanta’s only notable rotation addition, leaving the Braves without the playoff-caliber starter most NL contenders secured before the deadline.
FiveThirtyEight-level urgency was clear in the market: the Dodgers landed Tarik Skubal, the Padres added two starters, and the Cubs and Brewers also upgraded for October.
Alex Anthopoulos said Atlanta explored the market but found the asking price for quality pitching too high, choosing not to move top young talent for a short-term fix.
Mahle, 37, has pitched only 100 2/3 innings since 2022 and is returning from Tommy John surgery and shoulder and hamstring issues, making him a shaky No. 2 option behind Chris Sale.
Atlanta still holds an eight-game NL East lead and a 99.3% playoff chance, but its October outlook now rests heavily on health from Spencer Strider and a thin internal rotation.