Braves predicted to part ways with $71M World Series champion and All-Star after brutal stretch

The Atlanta Braves are struggling with their starting pitching, and it has become more obvious with each passing game. Atlanta still sits atop the NL East, but its lead has steadily shrunk over the past month.

Yes, the offense went through an extended cold stretch, but the starting rotation has also struggled significantly. Outside of Chris Sale, the Braves never quite know what they are going to get.

“How the Atlanta Braves should line up their current rotation options has been a source of debate due to injuries and struggles from what were productive pieces. With this in mind, it is fair to realize that any way that the current group shakes out is going to have a fair share of question marks outside of Chris Sale,” ATL All Day’s Nick Halden wrote.

Veteran left-hander Martín Pérez started strong after joining Atlanta’s rotation, but his performance has cooled in recent weeks. He is 4-3 since being inserted into the rotation following his DFA earlier this season.

“Since rejoining the starting rotation on May 19, Perez had made eight starts and gone 4-3 with a 4.17 ERA. He has allowed three or fewer runs in six of those appearances,” CBS Sports wrote.

Pérez was hit hard by the New York Mets on Sunday afternoon, allowing five runs in just two innings before exiting the game after a line drive struck his arm. Braves reporter Scott Coleman believes the organization may soon move on from him.

“I know the options are slim at the moment, but the Martin Perez run is just about over and I hope they don’t wait too long to get off this train,” Coleman said. “I’m not kidding, I think there’s a decent chance he gets DFA’d in the next week or two if they want the roster spot.”

Pérez has provided value to Atlanta simply by taking the ball every fifth day. However, when he misses his spots, he becomes highly hittable—something the Braves can ill afford right now.

Throughout his career, Pérez has earned more than $71 million in contracts. He is a World Series champion and an All-Star, but as his effectiveness declines, Atlanta may ultimately decide it is time to move on.

More MLB news: