As Major League Baseball’s hot stove season has cooled down a bit over the last couple of weeks, there is still a lot of value out on the open market. The hope for the Atlanta Braves is that they are not done spending yet, as the front office has been adamant about adding another impactful arm this offseason.
That would certainly help a lot for a Braves rotation that was a disaster last season, and they want to start 2026 on a good note. If the Braves decide not to sign any of the top remaining starter options, such as Framber Valdez and Ranger Suarez, there is still a long list of veteran starters, like Blue Jays free agent Chris Bassitt, who could make a strong impact.
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Braves Writer Urges Team to Target Chris Bassitt
In a recent article by SportsTalkAtl.com’s Chase Irle, he proposes that the Braves give strong consideration to signing Chris Bassitt:
“Bassitt likely represents the floor of the type of starter the Braves are looking to add. Heâs more than just an innings eater, but at this stage of his career, thatâs a big part of his value. Heâll be 37 next season and has made at least 31 starts in each of the last three years, posting a 3.89 ERA over that span.”
Bassitt was also vital to the Blue Jays’ playoff run back in October, and might have even added to his value as he was used strictly out of the bullpen.
After being named an All-Star back in 2021 with the Athletics, he had a brief stint with the Mets and then signed a three-year deal with the Blue Jays. As Irle mentions, Bassitt has been a premier innings-eater over the past three seasons. He’s pitched in at least 170 innings in four straight seasons.
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What is Chris Bassitt’s Value? Could He Help the Braves?
Chris Bassitt would likely help any rotation he joins, as he adds value with both his production and ability to take the ball every fifth day.
He’s 36 now, but doesn’t appear to be slowing down all that much.
According to Spotrac, he is projected to earn a two-year, $31 million contract.
Should the Braves meet him on that asking price? Atlanta isn’t looking for an ace at this point. They have two strong frontline starters in Chris Sale and Spencer Schwellenbach, so yes, considering Schwellenbach is cheap for now, the Braves should make a strong offer for Chris Bassitt.
GettyBlue Jays predicted to lose Chris Bassitt to AL East rival.
It’s unclear whether he will return to the Blue Jays or not, but considering how aggressive Toronto has been this offseason, they would have likely already made a deal with Bassitt.
According to BaseballReference.com, Chris Bassitt is projected to post a 4.06 ERA over 162 innings next season.
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