Braves Predicted to Acquire $77M Strikeout Ace

Top prospect to be sent to pair new pitcher with Paul Skenes

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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The Atlanta Braves are reportedly in talks to acquire a high-priced starting pitcher with a history of dominant strikeout numbers. The move would send one of the team's top prospects to the opposing club in order to pair the new ace with young star Paul Skenes.

Why it matters

The Braves are looking to bolster their pitching staff after injuries plagued the rotation last season. Adding an elite strikeout pitcher could give them a formidable 1-2 punch atop the rotation alongside Skenes, who is considered one of the top young arms in baseball.

The details

Details of the potential trade are still emerging, but the Braves are said to be willing to part with a top prospect in order to land the veteran strikeout specialist, who is owed $77 million over the next several seasons.

  • The Braves opened Spring Training this week.

The players

Atlanta Braves

The professional baseball team based in Atlanta, Georgia that competes in Major League Baseball.

Paul Skenes

A highly touted young starting pitcher for the Braves who is considered one of the top prospects in the sport.

Spencer Schwellenbach

A Braves pitcher who will begin the season injured, creating a need for the team to add pitching depth.

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What’s next

The Braves will need to finalize the trade details and integrate the new pitcher into their rotation before Opening Day.

The takeaway

The Braves are making a bold move to acquire an elite strikeout pitcher, showing their commitment to building a championship-caliber pitching staff around their young star Skenes.