The Atlanta Braves are reportedly targeting Nathan Eovaldi as a potential addition to their starting rotation, according to sources within the industry. The 34-year-old right-hander, who recently became a free agent after declining his $20 million option with the Texas Rangers, is expected to be a key player on the free-agent market this offseason.
Eovaldi’s Free Agency and Market Value
By turning down his player option for the 2025 season, Eovaldi is now positioned to secure a multiyear deal that is likely to include an average annual value (AAV) of at least $20 million. The decision to decline the option comes after a successful season, where he posted solid numbers across the board. Rangers president of baseball operations Chris Young expressed confidence in the possibility of re-signing Eovaldi but acknowledged that the pitcher’s free-agent status opens up other opportunities. “We expected, and we’re still working toward hopefully getting him back in a Rangers uniform,” Young told MLB.com.
Eovaldi’s Impressive 2023 Performance
In 2023, Eovaldi made 29 starts for the Rangers, finishing the year with a 3.80 ERA and 170 2/3 innings pitched. His strikeout rate of 23.9 percent marked his best since 2021, showcasing that he remains an effective and consistent starter. Over the last two seasons, Eovaldi threw a total of 314 2/3 innings, compiling a 24-13 record with a 3.72 ERA. His strong performance in 2023 also included a critical role in helping the Rangers win the 2023 World Series.
Postseason Success and Veteran Leadership
Beyond his regular-season numbers, Eovaldi has a proven track record in the postseason. He has posted a 9-1 record with a 2.85 ERA in 12 career postseason starts. His experience includes playing a pivotal role in the 2018 World Series with the Boston Red Sox, alongside current Braves ace Chris Sale. Eovaldi also earned his second World Series ring with the Rangers in 2023, solidifying his reputation as a reliable postseason performer.
Braves’ Rotation Needs and Potential Additions
The Braves are currently evaluating their starting rotation for the 2024 season. With Spencer Strider recovering from right elbow surgery, and Max Fried and Charlie Morton possibly exploring opportunities elsewhere, Atlanta could look to bolster its rotation with another experienced arm. Eovaldi’s postseason pedigree and veteran leadership would be valuable assets to a Braves team with World Series aspirations. Spencer Schwellenbach, Reynaldo López, and Chris Sale are expected to lead the Braves’ rotation until Strider’s return, but Eovaldi could be a perfect fit to solidify the depth of the staff. With Fried as one of the top free-agent pitchers on the market and Morton nearing the end of his career, the Braves may need to act quickly to secure a reliable, experienced starter like Eovaldi.
Eovaldi’s Future with the Braves
As the Braves focus on filling out their rotation for 2024, Nathan Eovaldi remains a strong candidate. His consistency, leadership, and postseason success make him an attractive option for a team looking to make another deep playoff run. Whether or not Eovaldi ultimately joins the Braves, his status as a free agent will remain a key talking point throughout the offseason.
