The Atlanta Braves are working to retain two key players, Max Fried and Charlie Morton, despite stiff competition.
While many fans expected the Braves to let Fried walk in free agency, reports from Jim Bowden of The Athletic suggest the team is making a concerted effort to re-sign the star pitcher. Additionally, the Braves are negotiating with Morton for another one-year deal, valued between $15 and $20 million.
Fried, a top-tier southpaw, is projected to command a six-year contract worth $150–$200 million. Competing with high-spending teams like the Mets, Dodgers, and Yankees makes retaining him challenging. Interest from the Orioles, Blue Jays, and Red Sox adds to the complexity.
Morton’s return appears more likely if the two sides agree on financial terms. Meanwhile, Atlanta is exploring other pitching options in free agency and trades, targeting higher-tier pitchers over names like Jordan Montgomery. However, they are confident in young talent such as Bryce Elder and AJ Smith-Shawver to bolster their rotation if necessary.
The market for starting pitchers is tight, driving prices up, as seen with Yusei Kikuchi’s recent three-year, $63 million deal. For the Braves to secure Fried or another elite starter, they’ll need to stretch their financial limits significantly.
