What's Happening?
Alek Manoah, a former All-Star pitcher, has been claimed off waivers by the Atlanta Braves after being designated for assignment by the Toronto Blue Jays. Manoah, who is 27 years old, had a promising start to his career, finishing third in the Cy Young voting in 2022. However, his performance declined, leading to a demotion in 2023 and season-ending elbow surgery in 2024. Despite these setbacks, Manoah showed improvement while rehabbing with Triple-A Buffalo, posting a 2.97 ERA in seven starts.
Why It's Important?
The Braves' decision to acquire Manoah represents a strategic move to bolster their pitching staff with a player who has demonstrated high potential in the past. This acquisition could be pivotal for Manoah's career, offering him a fresh start and the opportunity to regain his form. For the Braves, Manoah's addition could enhance their pitching depth, especially if he can return to his previous performance levels. This move also reflects the Braves' willingness to take calculated risks on players with potential upside.
What's Next?
Manoah will likely undergo further evaluation and training with the Braves to determine his role within the team. The Braves' coaching staff will work to integrate him into their pitching rotation or bullpen, depending on his recovery and performance. Manoah's progress will be closely watched as the Braves aim to maximize his contributions to the team.
