Braves star reliever linked to Boston Red Sox

The Braves didn’t have many free agents test the market this winter. Those who have, however, have found new homes, and A.J. Minter could be next. According to Chris Cotillo, the Red Sox are in on A.J. Minter and have had multiple conversations with the star reliever. 

First, it was Max Fried, who left after he inked a record-breaking deal with the Yankees; then, Charlie Morton signed a one-year contract with the Orioles. Now, it could be Minter. Make no mistake about it: the barreling southpaw is cut from the same cloth as Fried, Freddie Freeman, and Dansby Swanson.

The Texas native has been a staple in Atlanta’s bullpen. Minter has put together an excellent career thus far, even overcoming a demotion to Triple-A Gwinnett at one point on his way to becoming the Braves most reliable reliever.

Since 2020, Minter has been elite, boasting a 2.85 ERA and 1.086 WHIP, and he’s been just as good in the postseason. In 20 appearances over the years with Atlanta in the playoffs, he’s put together a 2.88 ERA with 13 strikeouts per nine innings.

Minter managed a more-than-solid 2.62 ERA this past season, but his strikeout rate dipped to 26.1%, and his FIP ballooned up to 4.45. It’s not yet clear whether he will be ready for Opening Day, which will certainly impact his free agency.

Jon Morosi of MLB Network reported back during the Winter Meetings that the Braves want to bring A.J. Minter back to Atlanta, but they’ll have stiff competition, with the Cubs and Rangers also showing interest.

Texas ended up signing an old friend in Chris Martin, so that could take them out of the running for Minter, who has said on many occasions that he wants to remain with the Braves. As long as the bidding stays reasonable, you have to like Atlanta’s chances of retaining him, even if the deep-pocketed Red Sox are in pursuit.

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Rich von Biberstein/Icon Sportswire