As the Atlanta Braves prepare for the offseason, they’re being urged to target one of the top pitchers expected to hit free agency Framber Valdez of the Houston Astros. After a season disrupted by injuries, Atlanta will likely be looking to bolster its rotation.
FanSided’s Christopher Kline believes the Braves should make a serious effort to land Valdez, even though the move may not be financially realistic. Valdez isn’t a strikeout-heavy pitcher (129 Ks in 128 innings), but his elite ground-ball rate ranked in the 98th percentile makes him a highly effective arm. His mix of a dynamic sinker, curveball, and deceptive changeup, along with mid-90s velocity, gives him one of the most dangerous repertoires in the game.
While Valdez is projected to be the top pitcher on the market, Kline admits that his price tag may push him out of Atlanta’s range. If he seeks a deal similar to Max Fried’s projected value, the Braves may have to walk away. Still, given the current state of the rotation, Kline argues that the Braves might need to break from their usual cautious approach and spend big.
Braves Also Linked to Struggling D-Backs Ace Zac Gallen
In a separate suggestion, Kline points to Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Zac Gallen as another possible Braves target. Gallen, who is also approaching free agency, has had a rough season, but his history of durability and high-level performance still make him a tempting option.
The Braves, dealing with a depleted rotation, could benefit from taking a chance on Gallen especially if his recent slump keeps his market value in check. Kline suggests a short-term “buy-low” deal, perhaps two or three years, could give Atlanta a high-upside addition without breaking the bank.
While Braves GM Alex Anthopoulos has typically been conservative in free agency, his pursuit of Aaron Nola last offseason shows a willingness to act when the opportunity is right. If Gallen can rediscover his All-Star form, he could slide in as a strong No. 3 behind Spencer Strider and Chris Sale giving Atlanta one of the deepest rotations in the league.
In short, Valdez represents the high-cost, high-reward play, while Gallen offers a lower-risk, potentially high-upside option both worth watching as the Braves prepare for a crucial offseason.
