Chris Sale Dominates as Braves Blank Mets, Trade Rumors Swirl
Reigning NL Cy Young winner Chris Sale delivered his best performance of the 2025 season Wednesday night, leading the Atlanta Braves to a 5-0 shutout of the struggling New York Mets. Sale came within one out of a complete game shutout—something he hasn’t accomplished since June 5, 2019, when he tossed a nine-inning gem for the Red Sox against the Royals.
Sale was nearly untouchable, striking out seven while allowing just five hits and one walk over 8 2/3 innings. The performance handed the Mets their fifth consecutive loss and served as a potential showcase for Sale, who has been at the center of trade speculation as the deadline approaches.
Are the Braves Selling?
Despite their recent upswing—winning six of their last eight—the Braves are still 11 games behind the division-leading Mets and six back of the final NL Wild Card spot. Just a few weeks ago, Atlanta had dropped 10 games below .500 after a seven-game skid, casting doubt on their playoff hopes.
This turbulent season has led many around the league to speculate that the Braves, who had dominated the NL East for six straight seasons until finishing second last year, might be sellers at the deadline. Among the most talked-about trade candidates? Chris Sale.
Teams reportedly eyeing the veteran lefty include the Yankees, Tigers, and even his former team, the Red Sox. But according to Braves president of baseball operations Alex Anthopoulos, that’s not happening.
Anthopoulos Slams the Door—(Mostly)
Speaking on Atlanta’s 680 The Fan, Anthopoulos dismissed the Sale trade rumors outright:
“I’ve seen the speculation. It’s completely ridiculous to me. We are not selling—especially someone with club control beyond this season. Will not happen.”
He doubled down with a bold statement:
“Will. Not. Happen. Bold, italicize it, caps.”
Still, Anthopoulos allowed for a slim possibility if the team’s situation dramatically changes:
“You get to the end of July and things are completely changed, I guess we would reevaluate. But it’d have to be extreme. We’re built to win.”
Sale’s Contract Status
Sale signed a two-year, $38 million deal with Atlanta after being traded from Boston, with a team option for 2026. That gives the Braves control of his contract beyond this season—making him an even more valuable asset, whether they keep him or consider a blockbuster move.
For now, though, Anthopoulos seems firm: Chris Sale isn’t going anywhere—at least not yet.
Leave a Reply