Among the top free-agent arms, names like Zack Littell and Lucas Giolito could be at or just beyond Atlanta’s preferred price range. That reality opens the door for a different group—low-cost starters who could be pursued on one-year deals to bridge the gap until the Braves’ young pitchers are ready to contribute.
Patrick Corbin is one such option, coming off a 30-start, 155.1-inning season with a 4.40 ERA in 2025. He has shown durability in the past and could be an innings-eater for a single season, with a potential contract in the sub-$10 million range. Marcus Stroman and Max Scherzer represent additional low-cost, high-unknowns who could fit a short-term role for Atlanta, offering veteran presence and reliable innings if their health holds.
Scherzer, in particular, remains an appealing fit for a one-year deal given his track record and the need for stability while the Braves assess Schwellenbach and Waldrep’s progression. While Scherzer’s age and recent performance are considerations, his impact when healthy could provide a valuable bridge to Atlanta’s next generation of starters.
Overall, the Braves’ strategy appears to prioritize cost-effective, one-year commitments that deliver innings and veteran presence, rather than pursuing high-priced, long-term investments. This approach aims to stabilize the rotation in the short term while Atlanta monitors the development of Schwellenbach and Waldrep, ensuring a sustainable path to a deeper, more competitive rotation in 2026 and beyond.
