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Alex Anthopoulos says Braves explored significant addition

Originally posted on SportsTalkATL | By Alex Lord | Last updated 12/3/23

As Winter Meetings commence in Nashville, the Braves have a couple of holes that could be filled as Alex Anthopoulos gets some face time with other GMs around the league.

At the very least, Atlanta has to add a starting-caliber left fielder, but the rotation could use another arm. What we do know is that a move won’t be made because of money. Anthopoulos told reporters that the Braves already looked to make a significant addition. Though it didn’t work out, it’s clear that he is big game hunting.

Alex Anthopoulos said the Braves already explored a significant addition. It did not work out, but perhaps this is an example of the Braves having considerable room to add — given they like the player and deal.

— Justin Toscano (@JustinCToscano) December 3, 2023

The first significant free agent signing was Aaron Nola, who inked a massive seven-year, $172 million deal to return to Philadelphia, but it wasn’t without a fight. It was reported that the Braves “were a real threat” to sign the veteran starter.

Many fans were skeptical of Anthopoulos’ interest level in Nola because of his price tag. Well, we know just how serious Anthopoulos was about adding him. According to Scott Lauber of the Philadelphia Inquirer, the Braves offered Aaron Nola a six-year, $162 million deal.

Reports then surfaced that the Braves shifted their focus to Sonny Gray, who ended up signing a deal with the Cardinals. Though the Braves lost out on the two, there are still several free agents that could pique their interest.

Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Jordan Montgomery, Eduardo Rodriguez, Michael Wacha, Seth Lugo, and Marcus Stroman are all possible targets. Then there’s the trade market. Dylan Cease is reportedly available, and the Braves are considered finalists, who could then potentially be extended.

Regardless of who they acquire or the medium in which it happens, Atlanta is in a position to shell out considerable dollars.

This article first appeared on SportsTalkATL and was syndicated with permission.

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