Braves Eye Garrett Crochet Amid Fried Uncertainty

The Atlanta Braves are facing a pivotal offseason as they could lose their ace, Max Fried, to free agency, which may lead them to explore trades for starting pitching replacements. ESPN's Buster Olney suggests the Braves might pursue left-handed pitcher Garrett Crochet of the Chicago White Sox, who is seen as a cost-effective option compared to Fried's potential $25-30 million annual salary. Other potential targets include Jordan Montgomery, who has a more manageable $22.5 million salary, and Sonny Gray, who could be an ideal fit if he becomes available. Given Fried's injury history and significant contract demands, the Braves may also consider re-signing veteran Charlie Morton for his consistency. Additionally, the Braves might look to bolster their lineup with a high-profile free agent like shortstop Willy Adames. Overall, the Braves are at a crossroads, needing to make strategic decisions that could shape their future.