The Chicago Cubs and Atlanta Braves could use rotation boosts after failing to reach their goals in 2024. The Braves endured significant injuries that prevented a deep playoff run and the Cubs fell six games short of a National League Wild Card spot despite having the sixth-best rotation in the league with a 3.77 ERA. It’s safe to say both teams need upgrades this winter and perhaps a hurler coming off an impressive postseason performance could help.

“The Atlanta Braves and Chicago Cubs were listed as potential suitors for free-agent starting pitcher Walker Buehler by MLB Network’s Jon Morosi,” Bleacher Report’s Zachary Bachar wrote Monday. “Morosi reported on Monday that the Braves have ‘some interest’ in Buehler while there’s also a ‘possibility’ that the Cubs sign him (1:05 mark).” Buehler has logged a 47-22 record with a 3.27 ERA, 754-to-190 strikeout-to-walk ratio, .221 batting average against and a 1.09 WHIP throughout his seven-year career with the Los Angeles Dodgers.

“The Braves could sign Buehler to replace former pitchers Max Fried and Charlie Morton, as both players are currently free agents,” Bachar continued. “Chicago could also target him in an attempt to get over the hump and return to the postseason, as the Cubs have reached 83 wins in each of the past two years.” The two-time All-Star performed poorly during the regular season in 2024 but became a different pitcher when it mattered most for the Dodgers.

The 30-year-old threw six scoreless innings in the World Series and logged a 1-1 record with a 3.60 ERA, 13-to-5 strikeout-to-walk ratio, .214 batting average against and a 1.13 WHIP in 15 innings pitched for Los Angeles throughout this year’s playoffs. According to Spotrac, Buehler’s projected market value is roughly $8 million over a two-year deal — making him a low-risk, high-reward candidate. The Braves or Cubs would be wise to add Buehler to their rotation for next season.