Alek Manoah, who hasn’t appeared in the majors since 2024, was designated for assignment late in the season by the Blue Jays. The Braves claimed him but opted to non-tender him a couple of weeks ago — a bit surprising given their initial interest and the fact he still had a minor-league option remaining. In theory, Atlanta could have let their small investment get a look in the minors before deciding whether to bring him back to the majors.
Perhaps the Braves believed there was a chance he’d circle back and agree to a smaller deal in free agency. He was projected to earn $2.2 million in arbitration and will now make $1.95 million with the Angels in 2026.