Braves Secure Chris Sale with $18M Option for 2026 Season
BREAKING: The Atlanta Braves have just confirmed the exercise of their club option on left-hander Chris Sale for the 2026 season, locking him in for $18 million. This urgent move comes as the Braves aim to solidify their pitching rotation following a challenging season.
In a standout performance, the 2024 National League Cy Young Award winner finished the season with a record of 7-5, a stellar 2.58 ERA, and an impressive 165 strikeouts. However, Sale faced significant challenges this year, including a ribcage fracture sustained in June while fielding a grounder, which sidelined him for over ten weeks.
Despite the setback, Sale returned to the mound with remarkable resilience, showcasing his talent by posting a 2.72 ERA and striking out 52 batters in just 36 1/3 innings after his injury. His performance was crucial for the Braves, who struggled with injuries throughout the season, ultimately leading to their first playoff miss since 2017.
The Braves, now under new manager Walt Weiss, are looking to bounce back and remain competitive in the National League East. With Sale leading a promising rotation alongside stars like Spencer Strider and Spencer Schwellenbach, the team is set to return a solid core, including former MVP Ronald Acuna Jr., first baseman Matt Olson, and third baseman Austin Riley.
As Sale gears up for a new season, the Braves are also navigating a transitioning bullpen, with closer Raisel Iglesias heading into free agency this winter. The team’s depth in starting pitching remains a strong point, featuring young talents like Hurston Waldrep and AJ Smith-Shawver, who is currently recovering from Tommy John surgery.
The New York Post was the first to report this significant development for the Braves, as they look to rebuild and reclaim their position among the league’s elite. Fans are eager to see how Sale and the Braves will respond in the upcoming season after a fourth-place finish.
Stay tuned for more updates as the Braves continue to make strategic moves this offseason.
