The Atlanta Braves Should Consider These Buy-Low Free Agent Starting Pitchers
Adding another starting pitcher would be a logical move for the Atlanta Braves this offseason. So far, the Braves have been relatively quiet in terms of major moves at the major league level.
At the time of writing, Atlanta’s most notable acquisition has been signing outfielder Bryan De La Cruz in free agency. Meanwhile, the team has lost key players like Max Fried and Travis d’Arnaud, creating significant gaps in their roster. Fried’s departure, in particular, leaves the Braves’ starting rotation with a pressing need for reinforcements as the 2025 season approaches. Addressing this void through free agency or a trade would be a sensible strategy.
If the Braves decide to pursue additional pitching depth, here are a few buy-low free agents they should consider:
Michael Lorenzen (RHP)
Lorenzen, a seasoned right-hander, split the 2024 season between the Texas Rangers and Kansas City Royals. He posted a solid 3.31 ERA with a 97:60 K:BB ratio over 130.1 innings, making 24 starts in 26 appearances. Signing Lorenzen would provide the Braves with a reliable No. 5 starter, and his versatility could allow him to transition to a bullpen role later in the season if needed.
John Means (LHP)
A former Braves draft pick, Means has struggled with injuries in recent years, making only 10 starts since 2022. In four starts during the 2024 season with the Orioles, he recorded a 2.61 ERA and a 16:2 K:BB ratio across 20.2 innings. Given his past success and ties to the organization, Means represents a low-risk, high-reward option for Atlanta.
Wade Miley (LHP)
Miley, another experienced left-hander, pitched only two games in 2024 with the Milwaukee Brewers before being sidelined by injury. However, from 2021 to 2023, he posted three consecutive seasons with a sub-4.00 ERA. Taking a chance on Miley could help the Braves bolster their rotation if he returns to his pre-injury form.
Spencer Turnbull (RHP)
Turnbull spent the 2024 season with the Philadelphia Phillies, where he made 17 appearances, including seven starts. He delivered an impressive 2.65 ERA with a 58:20 K:BB ratio across 54.1 innings. Like Lorenzen, Turnbull could be a starter initially and later shift to a bullpen role if required.
Julio Teheran (RHP)
A familiar name for Braves fans, Teheran spent the first nine years of his career in Atlanta. In 2024, he made just one start with the New York Mets. Bringing back Teheran would give the Braves a veteran presence who understands the organization and its expectations.
Each of these pitchers offers the Braves a potential solution to their rotation needs, with a mix of experience, upside, and versatility. By targeting one or more of these options, Atlanta could solidify their staff heading into the 2025 season.
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