Atlanta Braves Secure Chris Sale with Lucrative Extension

The Atlanta Braves have made a significant move by agreeing to a one-year contract extension with ace pitcher Chris Sale, valued at $27 million. This agreement, which includes a club option worth $30 million for the 2028 season, positions Sale as the highest-paid player on the Braves in 2027. The news was first reported by ESPN's Jeff Passan.

Sale's Performance Since Joining the Braves

Since his trade to Atlanta, Sale has demonstrated exceptional performance on the mound. Over 50 appearances, he recorded an impressive 2.46 ERA and a 2.33 FIP, coupled with an average of 11.6 strikeouts per nine innings. Among pitchers who have logged over 250 innings in the last two seasons (2024 and 2025), only a handful, including Tarik Skubal and Cristopher Sánchez, have surpassed Sale’s WAR, according to FanGraphs. This performance underscores Sale’s importance to the Braves as they look to compete for titles.

Financial Implications for the Braves

The new contract elevates the Braves' projected payroll to around $177.3 million, a significant investment as they commit to retaining one of their top assets. Currently, Sale will be earning more than notable teammates like third baseman Austin Riley, first baseman Matt Olson, and starting pitcher Spencer Strider, all of whom make $22 million per season. This strategic move signals the organization’s confidence in Sale’s abilities and potential to remain competitive in upcoming seasons.

Risks Involved in the Contract

While extending Sale presents potential rewards, it also comes with risks. The left-handed pitcher has not managed to secure 30-plus starts since 2017, primarily due to injuries. A fractured rib cage sidelined him for two months last season, raising concerns about his durability moving forward. Furthermore, his history with Tommy John surgery, which he underwent in 2020, has brought attention to his unique pitching delivery and its possible toll on his arm.

Long-Term Outlook for Sale and the Braves

At 37 years old, Sale is not getting younger, which factors into the Braves' decision-making process. The one-year extension with a possible second year stands as a calculated gamble; if he delivers another strong season, it is likely that Sale would command a salary exceeding $30 million in free agency. This approach allows the Braves to minimize financial risk while still holding on to a premier starting pitcher.

The Free Agency Landscape for Pitchers

As the baseball offseason progresses, the market for starting pitchers is beginning to take shape. Two-time reigning Cy Young Award winner Tarik Skubal headlines the expected free agents, and he is anticipated to command a hefty price tag following his record-setting $32 million salary in arbitration. Other noteworthy free agent pitchers such as Freddy Peralta, Sandy Alcantara, Kevin Gausman, and Michael King also loom on the horizon. With Sale now off the market, teams in need of a No. 1 starter will have to explore these alternatives, making the Braves' retention of Sale appear even more advantageous.

Conclusion: A Strategic Move for the Braves

Overall, the one-year, $27 million extension for Chris Sale represents a bold statement by the Atlanta Braves. By positioning themselves with one of the top pitchers on the market, they signify their commitment to maintaining a competitive roster. While risks exist concerning Sale's health and performance as he ages, his recent successes suggest that he can still be a valuable asset for the Braves as they aim for the postseason. In an increasingly competitive free agency landscape, this deal ensures the Braves won't be searching for a new ace next winter, allowing them to continue building a championship-caliber team.