Atlanta Braves: Moves They Should Make This Off-season
By Kit Anderson
4. Pay What it Takes to Bring an Ace to Atlanta
The Atlanta Braves have lacked a true ace in the top of their rotation for some time now. While Julio Teheran may have done a good impression of an ace a couple of seasons this past year has shown he is not consistent enough to be considered a top of the rotation arm.
Teheran is a solid pitcher that should stay in Atlanta but he should not be slotted into the top spot in the rotation this season. Chris Archer is one name that has been in the rumor mill for some time but it seems like the chances of getting Archer are slim at best.
Archer should be one of the first aces that the Braves attempt to target. The second should be a free agent that would not require the Braves to part with any of their wealth of prospects.
Jake Arrieta is a very solid pitcher who is going to demand a huge salary on the open market. The Braves may be hesitant to pay him what the asking price will be but if a trade for a younger pitcher does not materialize the Braves should be one of the teams in the bidding war for Jake.
Not only do the Braves need to add a top of the rotation starter but at least one veteran that they can count on if R.A. Dickey does choose to retire as the current speculations point to.