The Atlanta Braves have made a significant addition to their pitching roster by signing left-handed pitcher Chris Sale to a two-year contract valued at $38 million, with an additional $18 million club option for 2026. This deal follows Sale’s recent acquisition from his previous team, along with cash considerations, in exchange for infielder Vaughn Grissom.
At 34 years old, Sale’s career has been marked by impressive achievements and challenges. He was a consistent contender for the American League Cy Young Award from 2012 to 2018, finishing within the top six for seven consecutive seasons. However, his career trajectory faced setbacks due to injuries. Sale underwent Tommy John surgery in 2020 and dealt with a rib fracture and a right wrist fracture during the 2022 season, limiting him to only 11 starts over the past three years.
Despite these challenges, the Braves see potential in Sale’s recovery and performance. Last season, he faced a stress reaction to his left scapula, culminating in a 4.30 ERA over 20 starts. However, his post-injury list return in August showed promise, where he recorded a 3.92 ERA in nine starts.
The trade for Sale, at the expense of Grissom, indicates the Braves’ confidence in Sale’s ability to rebound and contribute significantly to the team’s success. Alex Anthopoulos, the Braves’ president of baseball operations, expressed optimism about Sale’s upcoming season. “This is the first normal offseason [Sale] will have had in a long time,” Anthopoulos noted. He acknowledged Sale’s limited innings last year but affirmed the team’s flexible approach in managing his workload.
The Braves’ decision to invest in Sale reflects their strategic approach to enhancing their pitching lineup and their belief in his potential to regain his top form. As Sale prepares for the upcoming season with the Braves, both the team and its fans will eagerly anticipate his contribution to their pursuit of success in Major League Baseball.
