ATLANTA — The Atlanta Braves have solidified their pitching lineup by extending a contract with left-hander Chris Sale, adding $27 million for the 2027 season. The 36-year-old veteran, who made a significant impact in his first season with the Braves by winning the 2024 NL Cy Young Award, also has a $30 million team option for 2028 embedded in the contract.
Sale’s journey to Atlanta began when he was acquired from the Boston Red Sox in December 2023. After joining the Braves, he agreed to a restructured two-year contract worth $38 million, which included an $18 million club option for the 2026 season. The Braves opted to exercise this option in November.
In his tenure with the Braves, Sale has posted impressive numbers, boasting a 25-8 record with a remarkable 2.46 ERA over 49 starts and one relief appearance. Additionally, his successful season has earned him a spot on the All-Star team twice, bringing his total appearances to nine throughout his career.
Overall, Sale’s career record stands at 145 wins and 88 losses, with a 3.01 ERA accrued over 15 seasons in the major leagues spread across the Chicago White Sox, Boston Red Sox, and the Atlanta Braves. He has struck out 2,579 batters in 2,084 innings, leading the league with an impressive average of 11.1 strikeouts per nine innings among pitchers who have thrown over 1,500 innings.
After facing multiple injuries during his time with the Red Sox, Sale has found a renewed sense of success in Atlanta. He underwent Tommy John surgery in March 2020 but made a triumphant return to the mound on August 14, 2021, and has since flourished with the Braves.
The Braves’ commitment to Sale reflects their confidence in his abilities and their aim to maintain a strong competitive edge in the league. As he continues to perform at a high level, fans of the Braves can look forward to many more exciting seasons with this seasoned pitcher.