The Atlanta Braves have been relatively quiet this offseason, with Spring Training fast approaching and no major roster additions made yet. However, Bleacher Report’s Kerry Miller has suggested that could soon change, naming the Braves as a potential landing spot for two of the top remaining free agents.
Despite their limited spending capacity, with their payroll nearing $200 million, Miller pointed to the Braves as one of the most likely destinations for starting pitcher Jack Flaherty. He noted that, although Atlanta hasn’t made big moves since trading Jorge Soler’s contract and declining Travis d’Arnaud’s 2025 option, the team is still expected to make a notable acquisition. While re-signing Max Fried or adding Willy Adames may have been unrealistic, Miller sees a relatively short-term deal for Flaherty as a possible game-changing move for the Braves.
In addition to Flaherty, Miller also mentioned the Braves as a potential “surprise landing spot” for shortstop Ha-Seong Kim. Given Orlando Arcia’s lackluster production and Ozzie Albies’ recent injury concerns, adding a versatile infielder like Kim could be an appealing move for Atlanta. Miller also suggested that with the Braves expected to be without key players like Spencer Strider and Ronald Acuña Jr. on Opening Day, signing Kim could provide valuable depth and flexibility, particularly if the team reaches full strength later in the season.
Flaherty, however, seems to be the more pressing need for the Braves. With the departures of Max Fried and Charlie Morton, the Braves have 320 innings to replace in their rotation. Although Strider and Spencer Schwellenbach are expected to contribute, they can’t fully make up for the loss of Fried and Morton. As one of the best remaining starters available, Flaherty has become a frequent target for the Braves. In 2024, he posted a 13-7 record with a 3.17 ERA, 1.068 WHIP, and 194 strikeouts in 162 innings. Despite concerns about his medical history, Flaherty offers a high reward for the Braves if they can secure him on a short-term deal.
Kim, who is also frequently linked to the Braves this offseason, could provide an upgrade at shortstop and serve as insurance at second base in case Albies faces further injuries. In 2024, Kim posted a .233 batting average and .700 OPS, and won a National League Gold Glove in 2023. While not as immediate a need as Flaherty, Kim’s flexibility and solid defensive play could still make him a valuable addition to the Braves’ lineup.
Overall, despite limited spending room, the Braves are still expected to make a significant move before the season begins, and both Flaherty and Kim could be part of their plans to strengthen the roster for the 2025 season.
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