Atlanta Braves MAILBAG: Time to Shift Focus to the Rotation?

Atlanta Braves fans are buzzing—will Alex Anthopoulos make one more big move to supercharge the rotation? Jake Mastroianni dishes on Atlanta’s front office strategy after key bullpen upgrades and explores the real chances of landing an ace starter like Framber Valdez or Freddy Peralta. Is there enough budget left under the luxury tax for a blockbuster trade, and would trading elite prospects like Hurston Waldrep or J.R. Ritchie create more problems than solutions? The episode tackles burning mailbag questions about the Opening Day rotation, the bench battle between Vidal Bruján and Brett Wisely, and which rookie—like Drake Baldwin or young Carlos Lara—could provide a breakout performance. Expect analysis on Spencer Strider’s development, Austin Riley’s need for a bounce-back year, and how Walt Weiss’s energy could shift clubhouse dynamics after Brian Snitker. Ideal for Braves loyalists who want insider insight on Atlanta’s World Series chances and the pivotal decisions shaping the 2026 season. Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONMLB for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.