Are the Atlanta Braves Done Making Moves This Offseason? Potential Trade for José Berríos Still on the Table

It’s been a busy offseason for the Atlanta Braves, with several key moves already made to bolster their roster. The front office has signed a number of players to multi-year contracts, including adding depth to the bullpen with Robert Suarez and a few other affordable relievers. They also made an important move in the outfield, acquiring Mike Yastrzemski, which should provide much-needed support. However, one area where the Braves still haven’t made a splash is in the starting rotation.

Braves’ Search for a Starter

While the Braves’ roster is shaping up nicely for 2026, they’re still in need of a reliable starting pitcher to complete their rotation. There are two primary ways they can add to their staff: signing a free agent or making a trade for a pitcher with years of control left. Given the options available, including a handful of solid free-agent starters and pitchers available for trade, the Braves could make a move soon to address their rotation.

One name recently floated by Braves writer Mark Bowman is Toronto Blue Jays starter José Berríos, who could be an interesting trade target for Atlanta. Berríos, a durable and experienced starter, would bring consistency and depth to the Braves’ rotation, which could be just what they need as they look to contend in 2026.

Should the Braves Trade for José Berríos?

José Berríos, a two-time All-Star, has been a consistent presence in the Blue Jays’ rotation for several seasons. Since joining Toronto in 2022, Berríos has posted a 4.09 ERA over 138 starts, averaging around 31 starts per season. While he’s not considered a frontline ace, his durability and ability to eat innings make him a valuable asset for a team like the Braves, who are looking for reliable starters to fill out their rotation.

Bowman recently discussed the possibility of Atlanta acquiring Berríos, noting that he could be a potential “wild card” option for the Braves, given his track record and the Blue Jays’ potential surplus of starting pitchers. With Toronto preparing to enter 2026 with an already crowded rotation featuring Dylan Cease, Kevin Gausman, Shane Bieber, Trey Yesavage, and Cody Ponce, Berríos might become expendable, making him a viable trade target for Atlanta.

Braves’ Rotation Outlook for 2026

The Braves don’t necessarily need a true ace to complete their rotation, but they do need a solid veteran presence who can take the ball every fifth day. While Spencer Strider is expected to anchor the rotation, the Braves have question marks with some of their other pitchers. Chris Sale and Spencer Schwellenbach, while talented, have struggled with injuries over the past few seasons, which makes their reliability going into 2026 uncertain. Additionally, names like Grant Holmes, Joey Wentz, and Hurston Waldrep are part of the mix, but Berríos would certainly be a more proven and dependable option than some of those candidates.

Berríos’ 2023 and 2024 seasons were much stronger, with ERA’s under 4.00, but his 2025 season saw a slight regression with a 4.17 ERA in 166 innings and a 4.65 FIP. Despite his occasional struggles, his ability to consistently make 30+ starts per year makes him a solid fit for a Braves team that values reliability in their starting rotation. Adding someone like Berríos would give Atlanta the depth they need to navigate the long MLB season, especially with the uncertainties surrounding some of their other pitchers.

Other Starting Pitcher Options

If the Braves decide not to pursue Berríos, there are still other viable options available on the market. Free-agent veterans like Chris Bassitt, Patrick Corbin, and Zack Littell could provide the stability the Braves need in their rotation. Bassitt, in particular, has been mentioned as a potential target for the Braves, as he brings a strong track record and experience as a reliable starter. While none of these pitchers are considered true aces, they could still provide valuable innings, and Atlanta will likely need a pitcher who can throw 150+ innings and make at least 25 starts to fill out their rotation.

The Need for a Reliable Starter

For the Braves, securing another starting pitcher is essential. With the injuries to Sale and Schwellenbach, and the uncertainties surrounding some of their other pitchers, adding a veteran who can provide depth and stability is crucial to their 2026 plans. Whether they pursue José Berríos via trade or sign a free agent, the Braves must act soon to finalize their rotation for the upcoming season.

As the offseason continues, it’s clear that Atlanta’s front office is focused on making the right moves to contend in 2026. A solid starting pitcher, whether through trade or free agency, could be the final piece the Braves need to ensure their rotation is deep, reliable, and ready for the long season ahead. With several options on the table, it will be interesting to see which direction the Braves decide to take.