In Bounce-Back Mode, Braves Extend Two Key Pitchers After Disappointing Season

The Atlanta Braves were one of the most disappointing teams in the National League this year, as they saw injuries to Spencer Strider and Ronald Acuña Jr. that cost both players their seasons.

Now, Atlanta has the winter to get its roster as healthy as possible while also adding free agents or trade pieces. But first, the Braves announced two big contract extensions to kick off their offseason.

The Braves announced they’d agreed to a three-year, $30 million contract extension with right-handed pitcher Reynaldo Lopez, as well as a two-year, $13 million contract extension with left-handed pitcher Aaron Bummer, effectively voiding two club options.

Lopez, 30, made 25 starts for Atlanta last season after not making a start for a few seasons. In 135.2 innings, Lopez posted a 1.99 ERA, 1.10 WHIP, and earned his first All-Star Game nod. He was an excellent member of the Braves pitching staff and Atlanta paid him as such.

Bummer, 31, posted a 3.58 ERA across 56 appearances and 55.1 innings out of the Braves bullpen. Atlanta views Bummer as a key piece in their bullpen and has now brought him back for the next two seasons.

These are far from the final moves the Braves will make this offseason. They’re going to be tasked with attempting to re-sign left-handed starting pitcher, Max Fried, while also looking at free agency to add additional talent to the roster.

More MLB: MLB Insider Links Orioles To Massive Free Agency Signing, Trade This Offseason