Full Breakdown
Spencer Strider’s Trade Prospects: Braves Weigh Options After Failed DeGrom Deal
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Core Event – Braves Explore Trading Strider After Injuries and Contract Burden
The Atlanta Braves are actively considering moving right-hander Spencer Strider in the upcoming offseason. According to MLB.com insider Mark Feinsand, the Braves previously discussed sending Strider to the Texas Rangers in a contract-swap for Jacob deGrom before the 2026 trade deadline. DeGrom exercised his no-trade clause, halting the deal, but the discussion signaled that Atlanta remains open to parting with its former ace.
Background & Context – Injuries, Performance Decline, and Contract Details
Strider’s 2026 season has been derailed by injury. He exited a June start against the New York Mets with right-forearm inflammation and has been on the 60-day injured list with right-elbow inflammation since mid-June. In eight starts this year he posted a 5.81 ERA, 1.36 WHIP, and 46 strikeouts over 39 innings, a sharp drop from his All-Star form in 2023.
His contract compounds the dilemma. Spotrac lists a $20 million salary for 2026, with $22 million owed each of the next two seasons and a $22 million club option (with a $5 million buyout) for 2029. Some reports describe the total commitment as a $75 million deal, while others break it down season by season.
Data & Statistics – Recent Numbers and Financial Obligations
- 2026 ERA: 5.81 (8 starts)
- 2026 Strikeouts: 46 in 39 IP
- Career (2021-2023) ERA: 3.37 in 65 outings; 2022 ERA: 2.67 in 31 appearances
- Contract: $20 M (2026) + $22 M (2027) + $22 M (2028) + $22 M club option (2029) with $5 M buyout; total cited as $75 M in some analyses.
Official Statements & Responses – Comments from Braves Management and MLB Insider
He added that any team taking on Strider would be betting on a return to his prior form despite the injury risk.
On-the-Ground Reports – Cardinals Interest and Market Outlook
The St. Louis Cardinals, sitting three games below .500 as of a June 12, 2026 report, have been identified as a potential suitor. The Cardinals’ front office is reportedly prioritizing veteran starters in the offseason, making Strider a logical target despite his recent struggles.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps – Varying Figures on Contract Value and Trade Viability
Sources differ on the total financial commitment. Spotrac’s season-by-season breakdown totals $64 million in guaranteed salary through 2028 plus the $22 million option, whereas several analyses cite a $75 million overall contract value. No source provides a definitive assessment of how much salary the Braves could retain in a potential trade, leaving the exact financial calculus uncertain.
What’s Next – Offseason Trade Possibilities and Salary-Cap Considerations
If the Braves decide to clear Strider’s contract before a possible future salary-cap implementation, they may entertain offers that retain part of his salary to improve return value. Conversely, a post-lockout market could see teams willing to absorb his contract to meet payroll floors. The offseason will reveal whether a trade materializes or if the Braves retain Strider for a bullpen role in the 2027 season.