In a bold move aimed at fortifying their pitching rotation, the Atlanta Braves have struck a deal with star pitcher Chris Sale, agreeing to a lucrative two-year contract worth $38 million. This significant agreement comes less than a week after Sale’s acquisition in a trade from the Boston Red Sox, marking a pivotal moment for both Sale and the Braves organization.
Under the terms of the contract, Sale is set to earn $16 million in the upcoming 2024 season, followed by $22 million in 2025. Additionally, the Braves hold a club option worth $18 million for the 2026 season, providing flexibility for both parties moving forward.
Sale’s arrival in Atlanta signals a new chapter in his career, as he transitions from the final year of his previous six-year, $160 million deal with the Red Sox. In a testament to the Braves’ strategic maneuvering, Boston agreed to pay $17 million of Sale’s original salary to Atlanta as part of the trade, ultimately ensuring that the Braves will incur no financial burden for Sale’s services in 2024.
Despite turning 35 in March, Sale remains a formidable force on the mound, showcasing his dynamic pitching arsenal during the 2023 season with a 4.30 ERA and an impressive 1.13 WHIP across 20 starts. While injuries have plagued Sale in recent years, his resilience and skill set make him a valuable asset to any pitching rotation.
Joining an already impressive Braves pitching lineup featuring Spencer Strider, Max Fried, Charlie Morton, and Bryce Elder, Sale’s addition bolsters Atlanta’s pitching depth and solidifies their status as contenders in the MLB. With Fried potentially entering free agency after the 2024 season, locking in Sale until 2025 provides the Braves with essential insurance for the future.
As Sale prepares to don the Braves uniform and showcase his prowess on the mound, fans eagerly anticipate the impact he will undoubtedly have on the team’s quest for success in the upcoming seasons. With Sale’s signature slider and unmatched pitching prowess, the Braves are poised to dominate on the diamond and make a formidable run towards championship glory.