Story perspectives

DeGrom Blocks Rangers Trade to Braves, Strider Deal Falls

By Drooid · Sep 12, 2026, 10:37 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

deGrom Rejects Trade

Texas Rangers attempted to trade Jacob deGrom to the Atlanta Braves, but he exercised his no-trade clause.
The proposed deal would have sent Spencer Strider to Texas in exchange for deGrom.
DeGrom’s five-year, $185 million contract pays $38 million in 2026 and $37 million in 2027.
Strider has missed games since mid-June with elbow inflammation and is unlikely to return this season.

Summary

Strider Injured

Spencer Strider has remained on the 60-day injured list since mid-June because of elbow inflammation.
Saturday’s MRI revealed only inflammation and no ligament damage.
He began a throwing program in August, but his 2026 return is questionable.
The Braves waived Elieser Hernandez, promoted Bailey Falter, and lost Duncan Davitt.
Only three Braves starters have 25+ starts this year, exposing rotation depth issues.

History

Historical Context

The December 1995 MLB collective bargaining agreement granted players the right to negotiate full no-trade clauses, reshaping contract negotiations. That pact enabled pitcher David Cone to secure a five-year, $10 million deal with the New York Yankees, the first contract featuring a unilateral no-trade clause. Today, Texas Rangers’ attempt to trade Jacob deGrom to Atlanta Braves unraveled when deGrom exercised his no-trade clause, echoing the 1995 empowerment of player autonomy. Consequently, the Braves must reshuffle rotation depth, promoting Bailey Falter amid injuries, while deGrom’s $185 million contract forces teams to reconsider future trade strategies.

1 of 3

deGrom Rejects Trade

Texas Rangers attempted to trade Jacob deGrom to the Atlanta Braves, but he exercised his no-trade clause.
The proposed deal would have sent Spencer Strider to Texas in exchange for deGrom.
DeGrom’s five-year, $185 million contract pays $38 million in 2026 and $37 million in 2027.
Strider has missed games since mid-June with elbow inflammation and is unlikely to return this season.

1 / 3