The Atlanta Braves are coming into the 2026 season hoping for better results than they had in 2025. Last year, injuries took their toll, and they finished 76-86, missing the postseason after seven straight playoff berths.
Unfortunately, they are already facing some injuries this spring. Pitchers Hurston Waldrep and Spencer Schwellenbach are dealing with elbow injuries, and it remains to be seen how long they will be out. Fortunately, there is one option still available in free agency as opening day draws closer.
Perhaps the Braves could make a play for former Boston Red Sox pitcher Lucas Giolito, who bounced back in a big way in 2025.
Giolito went 10-4 with a 3.41 ERA in 26 starts with the Red Sox last season. He still dealt with some injuries, but was healthy for most of the year after missing the 2024 season due to an elbow surgery. He’s a solid, middle-of-the-rotation arm that can eat innings when healthy and start in big games.
The former All-Star pitched 145 innings last year and also recorded 121 strikeouts. At this point, he may only receive a one-year contract this late in the offseason. Opening day is less than three weeks away, so that will affect what he can get.
But he’s a perfect option to fill a spot in the rotation for Atlanta, especially while it waits on Schwellenbach and Waldrep. We’ll see if the Braves decide to dive into the market and add the veteran right-hander.
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