Atlanta Braves Could Target Justin Verlander to Bolster 2026 Rotation

As the 2026 MLB season approaches, the Atlanta Braves’ starting rotation is raising questions. While the team has one of the league’s most talented lineups, the health and depth of their pitching staff will play a major role in whether they can keep pace with the Philadelphia Phillies in the National League East.

With several pitchers returning from injuries, Atlanta may need to explore free agent options to strengthen their rotation. One intriguing possibility: future Hall of Famer Justin Verlander.

Verlander’s 2025 Season Shows He Still Has Life

It’s hard to believe, but the 42-year-old Verlander is planning to pitch in 2026, and he could provide immediate stability for a Braves rotation with more questions than answers.

Verlander spent last season with the San Francisco Giants, finishing with a 4-11 record and a 3.85 ERA over 152 innings in 29 starts. While his win-loss numbers were misleading, his late-season performance proved he still has what it takes.

David Schoenfield of ESPN highlighted the veteran’s resilience:

“Verlander was 0-8 through his first 16 starts with the Giants, but he finished strong, posting a 2.60 ERA over his final 13 outings. He also added a sweeper to his arsenal, complementing his slider, changeup, and curveball to remain effective despite a fastball that no longer misses bats like it once did.”

Even as his fastball velocity declines naturally with age, Verlander’s experience and command of off-speed pitches make him a compelling addition for a team looking to balance risk and reward in the rotation.

Why the Braves Could Be a Perfect Fit

Atlanta is counting on several pitchers to rebound from injuries in 2026, including Chris Sale, Spencer Strider, and Reynaldo López. The team is also managing the long-term durability of other starters, creating uncertainty in the rotation.

Adding Verlander could serve as a low-risk, high-reward move. Schoenfield notes:

“Atlanta and San Diego make sense for either future Hall of Famer. The Braves have several pitchers coming off injuries, plus two potentially fragile starters in Chris Sale and Spencer Strider, so maybe a six-man rotation makes sense for them.”

Verlander would likely be seeking a one-year deal, given he turns 43 in February. Analysts, including Ryan Finklestein of Just Baseball, project a contract around $12 million, which makes him an affordable veteran presence for a team in need of stability.

Low-Risk, High-Reward Strategy

For the Braves, signing Verlander would be a calculated gamble. If their injured pitchers rebound, Verlander can provide leadership, innings, and late-season experience without long-term financial commitment. If injuries persist, he still offers a capable arm in high-leverage situations.

The free agent pitching market still has options, but Verlander’s track record, competitive mindset, and ability to adjust his pitching style make him one of the most attractive short-term additions available.

What Verlander Brings to the Braves

• Experience in postseason pressure

• Versatility with multiple pitches (sweeper, slider, changeup, curve)

• Ability to mentor younger pitchers

• Durable veteran presence for a rotation in transition

Atlanta’s front office may see signing Verlander as an insurance policy and a chance to strengthen their playoff push. With a rotation featuring a mix of health risks and emerging talent, a seasoned veteran like Verlander could make the difference between a first-round exit and a deep postseason run.

Looking Ahead

As Spring Training approaches, Braves fans will be watching closely to see which moves their front office makes. Adding Justin Verlander would signal a clear commitment to bolstering the rotation, pairing the team’s already formidable offense with a veteran pitcher capable of stabilizing the back end of the rotation.

For a Braves team aiming to reclaim the NL East crown, one more proven arm could be exactly what they need.