The Atlanta Braves could add one of MLB's greatest pitchers.
With spring training approaching, the Atlanta Braves remain active in evaluating ways to strengthen their roster ahead of the 2026 season. After missing the postseason last year, Atlanta enters camp preparation mode with clear areas to address, particularly within a starting rotation that faced durability issues and inconsistent performances.
While much of the core remains intact, the front office has continued to explore veteran options that could provide stability without compromising long-term flexibility.
The Braves still have one of the National League’s most dangerous lineups, led by Ronald Acuna Jr., Matt Olson and Austin Riley. Offense was not the primary concern a season ago.
Instead, pitching depth proved to be a limiting factor as injuries and inconsistency forced Atlanta to rely heavily on inexperienced arms. Although the organization has several promising young pitchers nearing MLB readiness, the Braves may prefer to supplement that group with a proven veteran as they prepare for a long season.
That idea surfaced recently during MLB Network programming when analyst Jared Carrabis floated a notable possibility. “I don’t know if he’s on the Braves’ radar, but they could add Justin Verlander on a one-year deal,” Carrabis said, suggesting Atlanta could explore a short-term agreement with the future Hall of Famer.
Verlander remains one of the most accomplished pitchers in baseball history. Over a career spanning more than two decades, he has earned three Cy Young Awards, an American League MVP, nine All-Star selections and two World Series titles.
He has also surpassed 3,500 career strikeouts, placing him among the game’s all-time greats, and has thrown multiple no-hitters while serving as a rotation anchor for several contending teams.
Despite being 42 years old, Verlander demonstrated last season that he can still provide meaningful contributions. He made 29 starts in 2025, throwing 152 innings with a 3.85 ERA and a 1.362 WHIP while striking out 137 hitters. While his raw velocity has dipped from his peak years, Verlander continues to succeed through command, pitch mix and experience.
For Atlanta, a one-year deal would align with the club’s current needs. Adding Verlander would provide a dependable innings-eater behind left-hander Chris Sale while limiting pressure on younger pitchers such as Spencer Schwellenbach. His presence could also bring leadership and postseason experience to a clubhouse intent on rebounding quickly.
As the Braves finalize preparations for spring training, a move for Verlander would represent a low-risk, high-upside option. While nothing is imminent, the connection highlights Atlanta’s willingness to explore veteran solutions as it looks to return to contention in 2026.