Braves Viewed as Ideal Landing Spot for Veteran Swingman Pitcher

Nick Martinez could provide valuable rotation and bullpen depth for Atlanta.

Feb. 4, 2026 at 4:55pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Atlanta Braves are in need of additional pitching depth due to injury concerns with their starting rotation, and veteran swingman Nick Martinez is seen as an ideal free agent target to fill that need. Martinez is coming off a solid season with the Cincinnati Reds where he made 40 appearances (26 starts) with an 11-14 record and 4.45 ERA over 165.2 innings. His ability to start games and also work out of the bullpen makes him an attractive option for the Braves, who are projected to have a strong rotation but have question marks around the health of key starters like Chris Sale, Spencer Strider, and Reynaldo Lopez.

Why it matters

The Braves' rotation depth has been a concern due to the injury history of several key starters. Adding a versatile pitcher like Martinez could provide valuable insurance and flexibility, allowing the team to better manage workloads and avoid overexposing their top arms if injuries occur.

The details

Martinez made 40 appearances (26 starts) for the Reds in 2025, posting an 11-14 record with a 4.45 ERA over 165.2 innings. His ability to start games and also work out of the bullpen makes him an attractive free agent target for the Braves, who are projected to have a strong rotation but have question marks around the health of starters like Chris Sale, Spencer Strider, and Reynaldo Lopez.

  • Martinez is a free agent this offseason.

The players

Nick Martinez

A veteran swingman pitcher who can start games and work out of the bullpen, Martinez is viewed as an ideal free agent target for the Braves to provide rotation and bullpen depth.

Chris Sale

A key member of the Braves' starting rotation who has dealt with injury issues throughout his career.

Spencer Strider

A rising star in the Braves' rotation who underwent UCL surgery in 2024 and faced a hamstring strain last season.

Reynaldo Lopez

Another Braves starter who has had injury concerns, missing time last season after fracturing his right elbow.

Hurtson Waldrep

A Braves pitching prospect who is expected to take a step forward in 2026.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The Braves project to have a really strong starting rotation in 2026, though there are serious injury concerns with three-fifths of their Opening Day group. Would you bet on any of Chris Sale, Spencer Strider, or Reynaldo Lopez avoiding the injury list this upcoming season? Martinez could serve as insurance if any of them get hurt, or if Hurtson Waldrep doesn't take the step forward most anticipate he will.”

— Tim Kelly, Bleacher Report Writer (Bleacher Report)

What’s next

The Braves will likely continue to monitor the free agent market for additional pitching depth as they look to solidify their rotation and bullpen ahead of the 2026 season.

The takeaway

By adding a versatile swingman like Nick Martinez, the Braves can bolster their pitching depth and provide insurance against potential injuries to their starting rotation, giving them a better chance of maintaining a strong pitching staff throughout the 2026 season.