As the 2025 MLB season approaches, speculation continues about potential moves the Atlanta Braves could make to strengthen their roster. One name that has resurfaced is veteran right-hander Sonny Gray, who signed a three-year, $75 million deal with the St. Louis Cardinals last offseason. While no trade discussions are currently underway, Bleacher Report’s Zachary D. Rymer recently floated the idea of Gray as a potential fit for Atlanta if circumstances change.
The Braves were rumored to have interest in Gray before he ultimately chose St. Louis in free agency. While Gray has expressed his commitment to the Cardinals, his recent comments about the team’s offseason moves—or lack thereof—have raised some eyebrows. In a conversation with FanDuel Sports Network’s Jim Hayes, Gray acknowledged that St. Louis hadn’t made many additions, calling the team’s approach a “reset” and leaving the door open for questions about his long-term satisfaction with the club.
Would Gray Be a Fit in Atlanta?
Gray remains an effective frontline starter, coming off a 2023 season where he posted a 2.79 ERA, 1.147 WHIP, and an AL-best 2.83 FIP with the Minnesota Twins. In his first season with the Cardinals in 2024, he delivered a 3.84 ERA with 203 strikeouts over 166.1 innings. His track record suggests he could be a valuable addition to any contending rotation.
However, there are several obstacles to an Atlanta-St. Louis trade. The biggest issue is Gray’s contract, which is structured to pay him $25 million in 2025 and $35 million in 2026, a financial commitment the Braves have been hesitant to take on. Additionally, Atlanta has a group of young pitchers, including Ian Anderson, AJ Smith-Shawver, and Grant Holmes, who are expected to compete for opportunities this season.
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Could the Braves Revisit a Trade?
At this point, a Gray-to-Atlanta deal seems unlikely before the 2025 season. However, things could change if the Braves’ pitching depth is tested by injuries or underperformance. Spencer Strider, the team’s ace, is already a player Atlanta is closely monitoring, and any setbacks could push the front office to explore outside options.
While there’s no concrete movement on this front, the Braves are always looking for ways to improve, and if Gray becomes available, they could be among the teams considering a move. For now, Atlanta seems content to see what its current rotation can do—but if the right opportunity presents itself, don’t be surprised if Gray’s name comes up again.