It didn't take long for the Atlanta Braves to turn the page from Cal Quantrill. The veteran starter made two starts in Atlanta and gave up 12 earned runs in less than nine innings pitched. It was incredibly difficult to watch for the once productive hurler.
Quantrill's Braves release wasn't the end of the road for him this season, though, with a surprise fringe contender signing the pitcher. Dallas Morning News beat writer Evan Grant reported Quantrill is signing with the Texas Rangers. With that in mind, it is a minor-league deal that points to his career being on a downward trajectory.
Quantrill had productive periods with both the San Diego Padres and Cleveland Guardians early in his career. There was a time when it seemed the right-hander could be plugged into the top three of nearly any rotation. Those days are far past, with Quantrill's ERA ballooning around five since the 2022 season. Seasons with the Colorado Rockies, Guardians, and Miami Marlins have all quickly gone awry, leaving a high level of frustration and forcing each team to cut ties.
Former Braves' Starter Cal Quantrill Finds Surprise New Landing Spot with Rangers
Quantrill has been given a great opportunity in the season's final three weeks to attempt to earn a tryout for next season. The bottom of the Texas rotation is a bit of a question mark, opening up the door for the starter to earn a chance with a third team this season. Quantrill started the season in Miami before landing with the Braves, who quickly found the starter to be a non-factor.
For the Braves to turn the page on any arm is truly indicative of a career gone wrong. Atlanta has been reduced to picking up relievers and starters off the scrap heap in hopes of finding surprise production. This is due to both a failing front office and endless injuries that have left no shortage of questions about the team's future.
Quantrill wasn't needed to come in and turn back the clock to his best years in the league. The Braves simply needed an innings eater who could step on the mound every fifth day and give the franchise a chance to save the bullpen for five or six innings. Instead, the struggling veteran opted to go out and throw live batting practice, putting more strain on an already taxed Atlanta pen.
With this in mind, there is no regret in parting ways with Quantrill even as he lands a new opportunity. Braves fans wish the former Guardian all the best, even with the understanding that his time in Atlanta was a complete and utter failure. Still, there is always a small measure of hope based on past accomplishments that Quantrill might turn back the clock.