The Atlanta Braves will have to find someone else after original target Aaron Nola opted to remain with the Philadelphia Phillies on Sunday, November 19.
Nola agreed to a 7-year deal with the Phillies, reportedly worth $172 million, according to Fox News. He was one of the biggest names in MLB free agency, with the Braves among the teams hoping to get their hands on the All-Star pitcher.
The Braves are left with no choice but to move on and look at other available pitchers in the market. Here are some names that they may consider moving forward.
Read more: Shohei Ohtani: 3 Reasons Dodgers Should Pursue Japanese Superstar
Sonny Gray
At the top of the list is Sonny Gray. Currently a free agent, the three-time All-Star is one of the remaining top names in free agency, per Jon Morosi of MLB.com.
The Braves are one of the top suitors for free agent Sonny Gray, sources say. Atlanta had spoken with Aaron Nola’s camp before Nola returned to the Phillies. @MLBNetwork @MLB
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) November 19, 2023
If they can get him, Gray could be back in the National League next season after spending the past two seasons with the Minnesota Twins, SI.com reported.
However, the Braves must act fast with other MLB teams also interested in the Tennesse native. Another team who have its eye on Gray includes the St. Louis Cardinals, according to Bob Nightengale of USA Today.
Blake Snell
Blake Snell is another free-agent name that the Braves may want to consider. Although the two-time Cy Young Award winner has battled injuries in his career, the Braves should seriously look into the fact that he can overcome them and perform well.
Should the Braves pursue Snell, money matters come into the picture. After winning his second Cy Young Award, there is no question that the southpaw pitcher will want a hefty deal fitting of someone decorated as him.
With his stock, Snell is projected to get a 7-year deal that will likely range around the $200 million mark.
Lance Lynn
Another free agent worth looking into is Lance Lynn. The two-time All-Star is another interesting free agent after the Los Angeles Dodgers declined its 2024 option on his pact, per Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic.
The veteran pitcher did not have a great 2023 season, although he performed better after being traded by the Chicago White Sox to the Dodgers last July. Although his last MLB season leaves a lot to be desired, he is someone who owns a proven track record that will come in handy for the Braves or any other team in need of pitching help.
Related Article: MLB Free Agency: 3 Players Yankees Should Target
© Copyright 2024 Sports World News, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.