ESPN REPORT: Atlanta Braves Announce Signing Of Top Talented Experienced Star Player From Tampa Bay Rays

Another report suggests that the Atlanta Braves are targeting pitcher Zach Eflin. Eflin, known for his consistent performances and durability, could be a valuable addition to the Braves’ pitching rotation. His experience and ability to deliver quality starts would help bolster the team’s depth as they aim for another strong season. The Braves’ interest in Eflin indicates their focus on enhancing their pitching staff to maintain competitiveness in the league.

A week ago, starting pitching didn’t seem like

a pressing need for the Braves. However, with the uncertainty surrounding Max Fried, who was placed on the IL with a forearm injury, the situation has changed. The Braves now need some insurance for their rotation. Targeting a pitcher with multiple years of control would be wise, considering Fried is set to become a free agent at the end of the season, Charlie Morton is expected to retire, and Spencer Strider will be recovering from his second Tommy John surgery.

Even before Fried’s injury, multiple MLB insiders linked the Braves to Rays starting pitcher Zach Eflin. The latest report comes from Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times.

“The Rays have been open to trading from their rotation this year and could do so again, with right-hander Zach Eflin one of the possible candidates,” writes Darragh McDonald of MLB Trade Rumors. “Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports that the Astros, Braves, and Cardinals are ‘among the teams expected to have strong interest’ in the righty.”

The Rays, currently 51-51 and 4.5 games back of a playoff spot, aren’t fully committed to selling. However, their rotation health has improved, giving them a surplus that allows them to explore trades to address other areas of the roster, bolster prospect depth, or save money.

After a relatively underwhelming first seven seasons with the Phillies, Eflin signed a three-year, $40 million contract with the Rays, where he thrived last season, posting a 3.50 ERA and 9.4 K/9, earning a sixth-place finish in the AL Cy Young race.

This season, Eflin’s second with the Rays, hasn’t been as stellar. He has a 4.09 ERA with a 7.1 K/9, though his 3.65 FIP suggests he’s been somewhat unlucky.

At this stage in his career, Eflin is a reliable pitcher who excels at throwing strikes. He may not replace Max Fried, but he would provide valuable insurance for the season and could offer similar production to Charlie Morton next season, helping to alleviate some of the Braves’ future rotation concerns.