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Braves Sign Jacob deGrom to One-Year Deal

  //health-fitness.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. 9/braves-sign-jacob-degrom-to-one-year-deal.html
  Published in Health and Fitness on Sunday, March 29th 2026 at 14:26 GMT by Sporting News
      Locale: UNITED STATES

Atlanta, GA - March 29th, 2026 - The Atlanta Braves have reportedly agreed to terms with veteran pitcher Jacob deGrom, bringing the two-time Cy Young Award winner to the team on a one-year, $34 million contract. This move, confirmed by sources close to ESPN's Jesse Rogers, significantly strengthens the Braves' starting rotation and reinforces their status as a top contender in the National League.

DeGrom, formerly of the New York Mets, brings a wealth of experience and proven dominance to Atlanta. While recent injury concerns have tempered expectations, the potential for a healthy deGrom is undeniably high. His career ERA of 2.52 speaks volumes, and when at his peak, he's arguably one of the most unhittable pitchers in baseball. The Braves are betting on his ability to regain that form, adding another legitimate ace alongside the recently acquired Chris Sale.

This signing comes at a crucial time for the Braves. They are currently navigating an injury to key starter Max Fried, who is expected to be sidelined for a significant portion of the season with a forearm issue. Sale, while performing well, can't shoulder the burden of being the sole top-of-the-rotation arm. DeGrom provides immediate depth and firepower, creating a formidable one-two punch at the top of the lineup.

However, the decision to bring in deGrom isn't without risk. The 35-year-old has been plagued by injuries in recent years, most notably undergoing Tommy John surgery in June 2022. His 2023 and 2024 seasons saw him limited to a combined 20 starts, with a noticeable dip in performance during the 2024 campaign, registering a 4.05 ERA in his 10 appearances. The Braves' medical staff will play a vital role in managing deGrom's workload and ensuring he remains healthy throughout the season.

The Braves' front office has clearly prioritized bolstering their pitching staff, acknowledging that consistent starting pitching is paramount for success in the playoffs. Beyond Sale and deGrom, the rotation includes promising young arms but lacks established veterans capable of consistently delivering quality starts. DeGrom's presence will alleviate some of that pressure and provide a stabilizing force.

Impact on the NL East: The addition of deGrom immediately shifts the balance of power in the competitive NL East. The Philadelphia Phillies, bolstered by their own offseason acquisitions, remain a significant threat. The New York Mets, still reeling from their own roster changes, are considered a step behind. The Miami Marlins and Washington Nationals are also undergoing rebuilding processes. The Braves, with deGrom in the fold, have firmly established themselves as the team to beat.

Looking Ahead: Braves' Championship Potential:

With a potent lineup featuring Ronald Acuna Jr., Austin Riley, and Matt Olson, the Braves already boast one of the most dangerous offenses in the league. Adding a healthy Jacob deGrom to their rotation elevates their championship aspirations to another level. A rotation featuring Sale, deGrom, and a developing core of younger pitchers presents a daunting challenge for opposing hitters.

Many analysts now project the Braves as favorites to represent the National League in the World Series. However, success is far from guaranteed. The team will need to navigate a grueling 162-game season and overcome the challenges posed by their divisional rivals and the tough competition in the National League.

The Braves' signing of Jacob deGrom is a high-reward, high-risk move. If he can stay healthy and rediscover his Cy Young form, Atlanta has a legitimate shot at bringing another World Series trophy to the city. The baseball world will be watching closely to see if the gamble pays off. Fans are eager to see how this dynamic duo of Sale and deGrom performs, and whether it can finally deliver the championship Atlanta has been chasing. The Braves' spring training results already indicate a team that is focused, determined, and ready to contend.