Full Breakdown
Braves-Rangers DeGrom-Strider Trade Talks Collapse
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Core Event: Blocked DeGrom Trade
Ahead of the trade deadline, the Atlanta Braves explored a contract-swap deal with the Texas Rangers that would have sent right-hander Spencer Strider to Texas for two-time Cy Young winner Jacob deGrom. DeGrom exercised the full no-trade clause in his contract and refused the move, ending the negotiations.
Background & Context
The Braves entered the 2026 season with a rotation weakened by injuries. Strider has missed most of the past three seasons due to elbow issues, prompting the club to consider moving his $75 million contract. The Rangers carried deGrom on a five-year, $185 million deal that runs through 2027, with a $38 million salary in 2026 and $37 million in 2027. Both clubs faced payroll considerations and a desire to reshape their starting rotations.
Data & Statistics
| Pitcher | Recent Performance | Contract (2026-2028) | Injury History |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spencer Strider | 2023: 20-5, 3.86 ERA, 281 K (MLB.com) | $20 M (2026), $22 M (2027-2028), $22 M club option 2029 | UCL internal-brace surgery 2024; elbow inflammation 2026; limited to 8 starts in 2026 |
| Jacob deGrom | 2025: healthy, 3.96 ERA, 174 K | $38 M (2026), $37 M (2027); $20 M club option 2028 | Tommy John surgery 2023; UCL surgery 2024; on 60-day IL since June 17, 2026 |
Official Statements & Responses
- MLB.com’s Mark Bowman reported that Braves president of baseball operations Alex Anthopoulos had repeatedly inquired about deGrom in the weeks leading up to the deadline, indicating the club’s willingness to part with Strider.
- DeGrom told the Rangers he wanted “to win in Texas,” a comment that was relayed by multiple outlets and effectively ended the trade talks.
- The Rangers’ front office framed the potential swap as a “salary dump” for Atlanta, noting that Strider’s 2026 salary ($20 M) was considerably lower than deGrom’s ($38 M).
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
- Salary figures: Some sources list deGrom’s 2026 salary as $38 million and his 2027 salary as $37 million, while others reverse the order. Both figures appear in separate reports.
- Injury status: DeGrom’s 2026 season was cut short after less than 10 innings due to UCL damage, yet later reports note he remained on the 60-day IL with “right elbow inflammation” as of June 17, 2026. The exact nature of his current health remains unclear.
- Trade composition: While most accounts describe a one-for-one veteran swap, a few early rumors suggested the Braves might have added prospects. No definitive list of additional assets has been confirmed.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The Braves discussed sending Strider to Texas in a contract swap trade for Jacob deGrom before the Trade Deadline, and although deGrom blocked the deal with his no-trade clause, it’s clear that Atlanta is open to moving its former ace,” — Mark Feinsand
- “If the Braves can find a team willing to bet he can return to his previous form, they could look to move him,” — Mark Feinsand
- “Strider has been shut down from throwing for four weeks following a consultation with Dr. Keith Meister. He'll then have a follow-up MRI. A clean scan would clear him to start a throwing progression. Given where this looked headed on Friday night, the Braves have to be relieved. An MRI taken Saturday in Atlanta came back showing nothing but inflammation and no ligament damage,” — Kristie Ackert