The Atlanta Braves experienced major changes this offseason following manager Brian Snitker’s retirement. His exit created an opportunity for new leadership, and the organization ultimately promoted longtime bench coach Walt Weiss to take the helm of a roster that still appears talented on paper.
As ESPN’s Jeff Passan reported, Weiss was officially hired with hopes of guiding Atlanta back to contention after the club missed the playoffs for the first time in seven years. Weiss, 61, previously managed the Colorado Rockies from 2013 to 2016, compiling a 283-365 record without a finish higher than third place. He now takes over a Braves squad that went 76-86 last season and battled significant injuries.
While Atlanta’s offseason was generally viewed as productive, concerns about the starting rotation quickly surfaced once Spring Training began. Right-hander Hurston Waldrep became the second starter sidelined during the opening week of camp. Weiss indicated Waldrep may require surgery to remove loose bodies in his arm after experiencing discomfort during batting practice. An MRI reportedly showed no ligament damage, though further testing is pending.
Prior to these setbacks, Atlanta explored trade options for several high-profile pitchers. According to Braves Today’s Lindsay Crosby, the Braves pursued Brandon Woodruff, Freddy Peralta, and Sonny Gray during the offseason. Gray ultimately landed with the Boston Red Sox after Boston reportedly outbid Atlanta for the three-time All-Star and former Cy Young runner-up, who is owed $31 million.
General manager Alex Anthopoulos clearly sought to bolster the rotation with an established arm, but when trade negotiations failed, the Braves did not pivot to sign a proven free agent. With injuries already thinning the pitching staff, Atlanta could face serious challenges if the remaining starters are unable to elevate their performance.
Missing out on Gray may ultimately prove costly for a team already walking a fine line with its rotation depth.
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