Atlanta Braves Acquire All-Star Pitcher in Blockbuster Trade

Atlanta Braves Acquire All-Star Pitcher in Blockbuster TradeAtlanta Braves Acquire All-Star Pitcher in Blockbuster Trade ATLANTA, GA – The Atlanta Braves have acquired All-Star pitcher Max Fried in a blockbuster trade with the San Diego Padres. In return, the Braves have sent outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr., shortstop Dansby Swanson, and starting pitcher Mike Soroka. Fried, 28, is a two-time All-Star and has emerged as one of the top pitchers in the National League. Last season, he went 14-5 with a 2.25 ERA and 170 strikeouts. He is signed to a four-year, $64 million contract through the 2025 season. “Max Fried is a proven ace who gives us a legitimate chance to compete for a World Series title,” said Braves General Manager Alex Anthopoulos. “He’s a young, durable pitcher with a dominant fastball and an outstanding changeup.” Acuña, 25, is a two-time All-Star and the 2018 NL Rookie of the Year. He is a dynamic player with a potent bat and excellent fielding skills. However, injuries have hampered his production over the past two seasons. Swanson, 28, is a solid shortstop who has been a key member of the Braves’ infield since making his MLB debut in 2016. He hit .277 with 25 home runs and 96 RBIs last season. Soroka, 25, is a former Rookie of the Year candidate who has been plagued by injuries in recent years. He underwent Tommy John surgery in 2020 and has not pitched in the MLB since 2021. The trade is a major gamble for the Braves, who have parted with three young franchise players in exchange for a pitcher who is 28 years old and has only one full season of dominance under his belt. However, if Fried can continue to perform at a high level, the Braves have a chance to be a serious contender in the NL East and beyond. Reaction from the Players “I’m grateful for my time in Atlanta and will always cherish the memories I made here,” said Acuña. “I wish the Braves all the best moving forward.” “It’s been an honor to play for the Braves and I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished together,” added Swanson. “I’m excited to join the Padres and work towards a World Series title,” said Fried. “I’m looking forward to pitching in front of the passionate fans in San Diego.”