Ian Anderson
Though it feels the pitcher has been in Atlanta's system for quite some time Anderson is only twenty-six. After an amazing 2021 debut season, Anderson struggled in 2022 and was sent down. Since that time Anderson has had Tommy John surgery and is working his way back. Building confidence and attempting to find the level of play he experienced in 2021.
After 5 shutout frames in the @Braves' 3-0 win today, Ian Anderson's career postseason numbers:
— MLB Pipeline (@MLBPipeline) October 11, 2021
3-0, 0.76 ERA
23.2 IP
14 H
10 BB
30 K
Not bad for a rookie. pic.twitter.com/aIGUAWrVSq
Again, if the Braves let Fried walk it is the belief in the top of your staff you're looking for an innings eater who gives you a chance to win. If that player is currently on Atlanta's roster the most likely option is Anderson. With a full normal offseason to get healthy and past success, expect Anderson to be given every chance to win a roster spot in 2025.
Luis Severino
The postseason experience and exposure for Severino could push the veteran pitcher out of Atlanta's price range. However, if you're looking for a reliable fifth starter who isn't on a top-of-the-market contract and isn't high-risk Severino is a great option. He isn't going to ever put the team on his back but the current Met will give you a consistent chance to win.
If Fried walks this is all Atlanta needs to replace. Fans should view the move as replacing Fried with Strider and looking to eat the innings Charlie Morton did in 2024.
Charlie Morton
Speaking of Morton why couldn't the pitcher continue to defy Father Time? Yes. The results aren't what they were a season or two ago but Morton is still an incredible innings eater. If the Braves prefer to spend their money on fixing the lineup Morton could be the answer.
If the veteran wants to return last season's result suggests he is more than capable of continuing to eat innings. Your 5th starter isn't supposed to be dominant but a reliable innings eater that is what Morton is at this stage of his career.