Braves predicted to sign $63M Charlie Morton-style veteran fix with World Series experience

Hunter Cookston

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Braves predicted to sign $63M Charlie Morton-style veteran fix with World Series experience image

The Atlanta Braves are cooking this offseason, to put it simply. What Braves GM Alex Anthopoulos is doing right now is exactly what he said he was going to do. The Braves are addressing every one of their needs, and it’s an exciting time as the organization brings in an almost entirely new coaching staff.

“The recent additions to Walt Weiss' Braves coaching staff bring a much younger dynamic than any Atlanta coaching staff in recent memory. Jeremy Hefner turns 40 in March, while Antoan Richardson is 42. Tony Mansolino and J.P. Martinez are both 43,” Braves reporter Grant McAuley posted.

Before Monday, the Braves had already added relievers, veteran outfield depth, and more. All of those moves were identified as needs at the beginning of the offseason. Another key position was shortstop, which the Braves addressed on Monday, and now all eyes are on a potential starting pitcher.

“Anthopoulos said shortstop, bullpen and rotation are among the areas they'll discuss addressing this winter,” AJC’s Gabe Burns reported.

With the Braves potentially needing a fifth starter, there is a name on the market that brings valuable veteran experience: former New York Met and Toronto Blue Jay Chris Bassitt.

“The Braves may be projecting confidence in their current rotation, but it’s hard to believe there isn’t some level of concern with so many arms coming off significant injuries. They could really use another proven starter, and while it’s unlikely they’ll dive into the top tier of the market, a steady veteran like Chris Bassitt makes a lot of sense. Bassitt has thrown at least 157 innings in each of the last five seasons and owns a 3.66 ERA over that stretch. A move like this would feel very similar to the Charlie Morton signing a few years back,” Sports Talk’s ATL Chase Irle wrote.

If the Braves were to sign Bassitt, they would add a veteran presence alongside Chris Sale, boosting morale in the clubhouse and solidifying the rotation. Atlanta would likely have its final rotation piece in place.

The Braves are positioned for a strong season if their pitching staff and position players can stay healthy. Injuries derailed them last year, but the hope is to keep those issues to a minimum this season.

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