4 Emergency Backup Plans for the Braves After Zach Eflin Signs with the Orioles
Zach Eflin seemed like a great fit for the Braves, but there are still strong alternatives available. After a period of inactivity, MLB trade activity has ramped up, with Randy Arozarena being the biggest name moved so far. However, the Braves felt the sting of a different trade: the Baltimore Orioles acquiring Zach Eflin.
The package the Orioles gave up for Eflin seemed easily beatable on paper. Eflin, with his NL East experience, an extra year of control, and promising advanced metrics, was a sensible choice for the Braves. While not a make-or-break option, Eflin was a realistic target for Alex Anthopoulos. Now, Anthopoulos needs to act quickly before other starters are taken off the market.
For more updates, check out MLB Insider Robert Murray’s podcast, The Baseball Insiders, and join the discord for inside scoops as the July 30 MLB trade deadline approaches.
4. Inquire About Jack Flaherty from the Tigers
Anthopoulos should prioritize acquiring a starting pitcher with club control. Max Fried could leave in free agency at the end of the year, Spencer Strider’s return date is uncertain, and Charlie Morton might retire. Thus, the 2025 rotation could look very different.
Jack Flaherty, despite being a rental, is an attractive option. He has had a dominant season with the Detroit Tigers, with a 2.95 ERA in 18 starts, 106.2 innings, 133 strikeouts, and just 19 walks. A postseason rotation featuring Flaherty, Chris Sale, Reynaldo Lopez, and Morton would be formidable. If the Braves can acquire him at a reasonable price, it could be a worthwhile move, potentially with an extension in mind.
3. Consider Tyler Anderson for a Solid, Under-the-Radar Addition
Tyler Anderson has had a strong season with the Los Angeles Angels, boasting a 2.91 ERA in 20 starts and 123.2 innings. Although some regression might be expected, Anderson can still provide solid innings at the back of the rotation.
The 34-year-old has another year on his contract, valued at $13 million, which is a bargain. With uncertainty in next season’s rotation, Anderson would be a valuable No. 4 or 5 starter without breaking the bank or costing many prospects.
2. Target Chris Bassitt for a Major Rotation Boost
Though the Toronto Blue Jays reportedly aren’t interested in trading players under club control past 2024, a good enough offer might persuade them to part with Chris Bassitt. Despite the Jays’ struggles, Bassitt has met expectations with a 3.78 ERA in 21 starts and 119 innings.
Bassitt’s $22 million salary for 2025 might be a deterrent, but his durability, consistency, and postseason experience make him a valuable mid-rotation arm. He would be a significant upgrade for the Braves both this season and next.
1. Erick Fedde’s Affordable Contract Makes Him an Ideal Target
While much attention has been on Garrett Crochet, Erick Fedde of the Chicago White Sox is also an impressive option. With a 2.98 ERA in 20 appearances and 117.2 innings, Fedde has strong command and limits hard contact.
Fedde’s contract is particularly appealing, as he is due just $7.5 million next season. This makes him an affordable option for a pitcher with a sub-3.00 ERA more than halfway through the season. Even with some regression, Fedde would be worth the price and wouldn’t cost too much in prospects, providing a major upgrade for the Braves.
