The Atlanta Braves' season continues to drag through the final weeks as the franchise prepares for a needed offseason reset. Taking a step back, it becomes clear that front office negligence and frustrating injuries contributed to creating the mess that has been the 2025 season. Regression from key veterans and Jurickson Profar's early suspension must be factored into the picture as well. Regardless, the Braves' season is over, with the only interesting piece remaining is looking to play spoiler.
With this in mind, there is a level of responsibility in protecting your players and veterans from playing innings that mean little to nothing. Aside from personal accomplishment, that isn't anything to be gained by putting key pieces at risk as we near the final games of the season. This led to the need for the Braves to pull Chris Sale out of the rotation.
The Braves Should Protect Chris Sale Benching the Start for the Remainder of the 2025 Season
It isn't likely to be an easy sell to the lefty after already missing time this season and pitching at the absolute highest level. However, Sale is simply too important to this team to risk his future health heading into the end of the year. He's already under contract for the 2026 season and games that don't matter aren't worth putting your best player on the mound.
Pulling Sale and allowing younger arms to eat innings is the right decision. One that gives you the best chance to start next year with a complete rotation.
Spencer Schwellenbach, AJ Smith-Shawver, Spencer Strider, Reynaldo Lopez, Grant Holmes, and Sale have all missed extensive time this season. With the injury history at the position, it doesn't seem far-fetched to believe Atlanta's focus should be on stopping the bleeding and putting all attention on making it to the end of the season without another notable injury.
While you can argue the same for key position players, it is unquestionably right for Sale. The starter has an extensive injury history, but has established himself as the team's best starter over the last two years. Regression from Strider and young options dealing with injuries has left Sale as the clear answer in a must-win game. This could change in a season, but for now the Braves owe it to the roster and fan base to protect an important piece.
The obvious issue with this is knowing the attitude of Sale and the desire to get on the mound and compete. There is no player who better defines the term of being an absolute gamer. Sale approaches each game with a level of fire and intensity that is fun to watch. In an increasingly laid back league, Sale gives the Braves a much-needed edge.
It is the same edge that is going to work against this decision. Atlanta doesn't need to risk angering an incredibly important piece, but if there is a path to keeping the peace and benching Sale, it is a decision that must be made.