Attention Braves fans! We've got some exciting and unconventional ideas to explore as we navigate the 2026 season. The recent news about Spencer Schwellenbach's injury has left us all wondering about the team's next moves.
The Braves' Starting Pitcher Dilemma: A Creative Approach
It's no secret that the Braves were aiming high this off-season, seeking a top-tier starting pitcher to bolster their playoff chances. However, the front office's efforts haven't borne fruit yet. And let's be real, landing a big-name pitcher is no walk in the park. It's a complex dance, requiring mutual interest and a delicate balance of negotiations.
As things stand, the Braves' projected five-man rotation includes Chris Sale, Spencer Strider, Reynaldo Lopez, Grant Holmes, and Hurston Waldrep. But here's where it gets tricky: AJ Smith-Shawver is out for the year, Strider hasn't quite found his groove yet, and Lopez's post-injury performance is a mystery. Add to that the Braves' tendency to give Sale extra rest, and you've got a recipe for a six-man rotation or a bullpen game. The depth is thin, and it's a concern that needs addressing.
So, what's a team to do? Well, the Braves should at least consider bringing in some fresh talent. There are free agents available, and while some names have been floating around, let's delve into some lesser-known options and creative ideas.
Trades and Realistic Expectations
When considering trades, we must be pragmatic. Teams pushing for the playoffs rarely part with their starters. On the other hand, teams unlikely to win their division might be more open to deals. For instance, the Pirates and Angels have been active, suggesting they're planning to keep their starters for now. We're not looking for Schwellenbach's equal here; we just need reliable arms to bolster our rotation.
A Look at Potential Trade Targets
Let's start with a team that might think they can compete but could be open to moving certain starters. Meet Reynaldo Lopez of the Twins. Despite pitching only 75.2 innings last season, his ERA of 2.74 is impressive. His expected ERA (xERA) of 3.96 is still solid, and Fangraphs projects him to perform well with an ERA of 3.75 and a FIP of 3.60. With two years left on his contract and an AAV of $18.375MM, the Twins might be willing to trade him for prospects and some financial flexibility.
Next up is Joe Ober of the Twins. Yes, his 5.11 ERA last season might raise eyebrows, but his xERA of 4.36 suggests he was unlucky. Ober also dealt with a hip issue, and as Braves fans know, hip injuries can linger. However, if Ober is healthy this season, his track record shows he could be a valuable addition. He's consistently been in the top 10% for walk rate over the last five seasons, and his xERA of 3.61 and 3.25 in 2023 and 2024, respectively, is impressive. Fangraphs projects him to improve, but if the Twins are willing to sell low, it might be a gamble worth taking.
Let's shift our focus to the Guardians and their pitcher, Tanner Bibee. If the Guardians are open to trading Bibee, he could be an excellent addition under team control through 2030. With a $48MM contract and a team option for 2030, it's clear the Guardians value him. His 4.25 ERA might not excite, but his xERA of 3.64 is more promising. Bibee is also durable, having pitched 182.1 innings last season with two complete games. Fangraphs projects him to perform well, but persuading the Guardians to part with him might be a long shot.
Out-of-the-Box Thinking: The Cardinals
The Cardinals are clearly sellers, but how far are they willing to go? They have two arms under team control for the long haul.
While the chances of the Cardinals trading McGreevy are slim, it's worth considering. McGreevy is under team control through 2031 and has shown promise with a 3.94 ERA in 118.2 MLB innings. Fangraphs projects him to improve, but Statcast is less optimistic about his stuff.
Then there's Liberatore, under team control through 2029. His career started rocky, but he's shown improvements, especially as a starter. His xERA improved from a lowly 6.04 in 2023 to a more respectable 4.19 in 2024. In 2025, he settled into a full-time starter role, delivering 151.2 innings with a 4.21 ERA and 4.03 FIP. Fangraphs projects him to continue this upward trajectory.
These trades are hypothetical, but they showcase the depth of talent available. The Braves have options, and while the road ahead is uncertain, one thing is clear: depth is crucial, especially after last season's challenges.
So, Braves fans, what do you think? Are these trades worth pursuing? Or do you have your own creative solutions? Let's discuss in the comments and share our thoughts on how the Braves can navigate this situation.
