The Atlanta Braves addressed their most pressing need yesterday by signing Jurickson Profar to a three-year contract, but the offseason work is far from done. Even if Alex Anthopoulos suggested that nothing is imminent, the Braves have to address their pitching staff in some form, whether it’s the rotation or bullpen.

Given their obvious financial restrictions, it feels most likely Anthopoulos will be closely monitoring the reliever market, but an opportunity for a starting pitcher could arise that feels too good to pass up. One name to keep an eye on is future Hall of Famer Max Scherzer. The 40-year-old recently threw for teams at an open workout, and the Braves were one of several contenders in attendance.

“Sources: free agent RHP Max Scherzer threw in front of teams at Cressey Sports Performance’s pro day earlier in the week I’m told Scouts liked what they saw: Mets, Yankees, Dodgers, Blue Jays, Phillies, Braves, Cubs, Red Sox were among those present Scherzer has been in contact with Toronto,” Pat Ragazzo reported on Twitter/X.

After an injury-plagued 2024 campaign in which Max Scherzer made just nine starts, the question remains whether he has anything left in the tank. However, even with all of the issues last season, he managed to post a 3.95 ERA, and he accrued 3.2 WAR in 2023 with a 3.77 ERA.

On a one-year deal similar to Charlie Morton’s — around $15 million — it might be worth the gamble. Scherzer’s resumé speaks for itself, and the stuff is still apparent. But beyond that, the guy is a straight-up gamer; bet against him at your own peril.