“BRAVES’ BACKUP PLANS!!!: 4 Emergency Pitching Options After Zach Eflin Signs with…

### Braves’ Backup Plans: 4 Emergency Pitching Options After Zach Eflin Signs with Orioles

The Atlanta Braves were eyeing Zach Eflin to bolster their pitching rotation, but with his recent signing by the Baltimore Orioles, the Braves need to pivot quickly to alternative options. Here are four emergency pitching targets the Braves should consider:

#### 1. **James Paxton**

**Profile:**
– **Current Team:** Boston Red Sox
– **Experience:** Veteran left-hander with postseason experience
– **2024 Stats:** 3.58 ERA, 1.24 WHIP, 104 strikeouts in 98 innings

**Why He Fits:**
Paxton, a seasoned pitcher, brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record in high-pressure situations. His ability to generate strikeouts and limit damage would be invaluable for the Braves’ playoff push. Additionally, as a lefty, Paxton would add balance to the Braves’ predominantly right-handed rotation.

#### 2. **Lance Lynn**

**Profile:**
– **Current Team:** Chicago White Sox
– **Experience:** Durable and dependable right-hander with a history of success
– **2024 Stats:** 4.22 ERA, 1.30 WHIP, 134 strikeouts in 120 innings

**Why He Fits:**
Lynn is known for his durability and ability to eat innings, which could help alleviate the burden on the Braves’ bullpen. His extensive postseason experience and competitive nature make him an ideal candidate for a team looking to make a deep playoff run. Lynn’s ability to pitch effectively in both starting and relief roles adds to his versatility.

#### 3. **Michael Lorenzen**

**Profile:**
– **Current Team:** Detroit Tigers
– **Experience:** Versatile right-hander who can start or relieve
– **2024 Stats:** 3.68 ERA, 1.19 WHIP, 98 strikeouts in 110 innings

**Why He Fits:**
Lorenzen offers versatility as a pitcher who can both start games and come out of the bullpen. His solid performance this season makes him an attractive option for the Braves, who may need flexibility in their pitching staff. Lorenzen’s athleticism and ability to handle multiple roles could provide the Braves with the depth they need during the stretch run.

#### 4. **Jack Flaherty**

**Profile:**
– **Current Team:** St. Louis Cardinals
– **Experience:** Young right-hander with ace potential
– **2024 Stats:** 3.79 ERA, 1.28 WHIP, 114 strikeouts in 102 innings

**Why He Fits:**
Flaherty, despite battling injuries in recent years, has shown flashes of his ace potential. If the Braves can acquire him and keep him healthy, he could be a game-changer for their rotation. Flaherty’s upside and ability to dominate on the mound make him a high-reward option worth considering.

### Conclusion

Losing Zach Eflin to the Orioles is a setback, but the Braves have several viable pitching options to explore. By targeting experienced veterans like James Paxton and Lance Lynn, or versatile pitchers like Michael Lorenzen, the Braves can reinforce their rotation and remain competitive. Adding a high-upside talent like Jack Flaherty could provide the Braves with a formidable pitching staff ready for the postseason challenge.