The Atlanta Braves are running out of time to address the growing concerns in their starting rotation. With Spencer Strider sidelined again and Reynaldo López out indefinitely, reinforcements are urgently needed if the team hopes to stay competitive in the National League East. Jeremy Lockett of Athlon Sports suggests that Triston McKenzie could be a worthwhile addition. He notes that Atlanta’s success with reclamation projects and their need for rotational depth make them a compelling destination for McKenzie.
Lockett emphasizes that bringing in McKenzie wouldn’t be about immediate results, but rather about unlocking his long-term potential. With a modest $1.95 million salary, McKenzie represents a low-risk investment—one that could be stashed in the bullpen or developed further within the Braves’ system.
Triston McKenzie
The 27-year-old right-hander flashed elite potential in 2021 with a 2.96 ERA across 30 starts, and though he’s struggled since, a fresh start could help him rediscover that form.
The Braves have a reputation for helping pitchers get back on track, and while there’s no guarantee they could work the same magic with McKenzie, he’s a high-upside arm worth the gamble. For a team sitting at 9-14 and already 7.5 games out of first place, rolling the dice on a player like McKenzie may be exactly the kind of move that sparks a turnaround—with little to lose and plenty to gain.
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