The Atlanta Braves are heading into 2026 with something to prove. After a 2025 season derailed by injuries and inconsistency - and ending in their first postseason absence since 2017 - the message from the front office this winter has been clear: reset, reload, and return to form.
So far, they’ve been aggressive. The bullpen got a boost with the return of Raisel Iglesias and the addition of Robert Suarez, two high-leverage arms who can shorten games and stabilize late innings.
On the position player side, the Braves added speed and versatility in Jorge Mateo, outfield depth with Mike Yastrzemski, and a solid all-around contributor in Ha-Seong Kim. These moves don’t just patch holes - they deepen the roster and give Atlanta more flexibility across the diamond.
But there’s one area that still needs attention: the starting rotation. And with spring training just around the corner, the Braves might not be done shopping.
Atlanta’s Rotation: One Piece Away?
The Braves’ rotation already has frontline talent, but durability remains a concern. Injuries have taken a toll in recent years, and behind the top arms, there’s a mix of youth and question marks. That’s why a veteran starter - someone who’s been through the grind and can take the ball every fifth day - makes a lot of sense.
One name that’s surfaced in recent discussions is Lucas Giolito, the former White Sox ace who most recently pitched for the Boston Red Sox. After missing the 2024 season with a partially torn UCL and flexor tendon, Giolito returned last year and made 26 starts, posting a 10-4 record with a 3.41 ERA. That’s a strong comeback for a pitcher whose career has seen both highs and health setbacks.
Giolito isn’t just a bounce-back story - he’s a legitimate mid-rotation option when healthy. His mix of command, experience, and swing-and-miss stuff could be exactly what Atlanta needs to round out its staff. He’s not being asked to be the ace - that role is spoken for - but slotting in as a No. 4 or No. 5 starter, Giolito could provide real value, especially if he can stay on the mound.
Why It Makes Sense Now
At this stage of the offseason, the free-agent market is thin, but that doesn’t mean it’s empty. Giolito represents one of the more intriguing arms still available - a veteran with postseason experience and the upside to outperform his price tag. Chris Bassitt is another name that’s been floated, offering similar appeal as a durable innings-eater, but Giolito’s ceiling might be a bit higher if his health holds.
For a team like Atlanta, which is built to contend right now, this kind of move could be the final touch. The offense is stacked, the bullpen is deep, and the rotation has the potential to be elite - but only if it stays on the field. Adding a proven arm like Giolito would give the Braves a little more insurance and a lot more stability.
Looking Ahead
If a deal comes together, Giolito would likely slide into the fourth spot in the rotation, giving Atlanta a solid blend of upside and experience in the back end. It’s not a flashy move, but it’s the kind of under-the-radar signing that can pay big dividends over a 162-game season.
The Braves know what their window looks like - and they’re doing everything they can to keep it wide open. Adding another veteran starter could be the final piece in a winter that’s already been about getting back on track.