The team signed former Boston Red Sox starter Sonny Gray to a three-year, $75 million deal. Chris Sale joins forces with a veteran winner to form a deadly one-two punch for the rotation in this signing. At age 36, Gray demonstrated his ability to dominate during a strong three-year stint with the Red Sox he just finished.
For years, the Braves have required the winning track record that Gray brings to the table. In 2026, he topped Major League Baseball with 18 wins. By keeping runs off the board effectively, his 2.72 ERA for the Red Sox proves his capability. The Braves have struggled to find a reliable second ace behind Sale. With a player capable of pitching deep into games, this signing resolves that issue.
Fixing a Broken Rotation
For a long time, Atlanta has viewed the rotation as a weak spot. Injuries in 2026 deprived the team of a clear number two option, causing the staff to suffer. “There are well-documented reasons why the Braves were in the market for a frontline starter at the Trade Deadline,” Foster wrote, according to Yahoo Sports.
Although the team added Tyler Mahle, he failed to be the difference-maker fans wanted. Before the 2027 season begins, the pressure mounts to get the rotation right. Foster identified the specific gaps that needed to be filled. “As the team heads down the stretch, there’s now even more scrutiny on a few things: the lack of a potent 1-2 punch for the postseason, their bullpen’s durability and the rotation’s overall dependability,” Foster wrote.
A Proven Winner at 36
The Braves have lacked a durable arm, a profile that Gray fits perfectly. He is one of the six pitchers who have logged 160 or more innings in each of the past four seasons. “Not many pitchers of Gray’s age can command a multi-year deal, but he might just do it after recording a 2.72 ERA for the Red Sox and leading MLB in wins (18),” Laws wrote.
Atlanta considers him a safe bet because of his ability to pitch in different environments. He has not logged a below-average FIP since 2016. “The question is when Father Time will catch up with him,” Laws wrote.
The front office recognizes that Chris Sale is the ace, yet he cannot do it alone. “Chris Sale is the ace. You probably guarantee that Bryce Elder is in the mix, too, along with Grant Holmes. After that, we’ll see what happens,” Smajovitts wrote.
Even though the remainder of the rotation has been a mess, Gray immediately alters that dynamic. Gray remains one of the best starters available despite turning 37 in a few days. He prefers to play in Nashville, Tennessee, because it is closer to his home.
