Atlanta Braves Consider Nestor Cortes as Low-Cost Pitching Option

The Atlanta Braves are reportedly considering free-agent left-hander Nestor Cortes as a budget-friendly option to strengthen their starting rotation for the 2027 season.

This consideration arises from the team's search for affordable pitchers similar to Martín Pérez, who provided solid performance in 2026. Cortes, who has not pitched in the majors since 2025 due to injuries and surgery, could be viewed as a reclamation project for the Braves.

Atlanta's rotation faces uncertainty beyond ace Chris Sale, with other pitchers like Spencer Strider and Spencer Schwellenbach having dealt with significant injuries. Cortes, who turns 32 in December, had a successful stint with the Yankees but has seen a decline in performance. His career statistics include a 3.94 ERA over 602 1/3 innings. The Braves have a history of acquiring effective pitchers at lower costs, and whether they pursue Cortes will depend on the evolving free-agent market.