Atlanta Braves Claim Former Blue Jays Ace Alek Manoah Off Waivers Amid Recovery

The Atlanta Braves have claimed right-handed pitcher Alek Manoah off waivers from the Toronto Blue Jays after he was designated for assignment, a move met with mixed reactions due to his injury history. Manoah, once a top MLB prospect and 2022 All-Star who finished third in AL Cy Young voting, struggled with consistency and injuries following Tommy John surgery last summer. Despite strong performances early in his career, including a standout 2022 season, Manoah was unable to maintain that level and spent much of 2023 in the minors. Blue Jays GM Ross Atkins described the decision to part ways with Manoah as difficult but necessary due to roster constraints. The Braves, led by former Blue Jays GM Alex Anthopoulos, are betting on Manoah's potential to regain form and contribute to their pitching staff. Manoah's move to the National League marks a new chapter as he seeks to return to his previous elite performance level.