Braves extend Chris Sale on $27 million deal for 2027: What it means for Cy Young winner, Atlanta's payroll
CBS Sports
by
Mike Axisa
February 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The Atlanta Braves have inked a $27 million one-year contract extension with ace left-hander Chris Sale for the 2027 season, which includes a $30 million club option for 2028. This deal solidifies Sale's future with the team as they navigate a potential starting pitching crisis. The agreement reflects both Sale's resurgence and the Braves' commitment to maintaining a strong rotation, particularly given recent injuries to key pitchers like Spencer Schwellenbach and Hurston Waldrep.
Sale, 36, has experienced a remarkable turnaround since joining the Braves in 2024. After struggling with injuries and inconsistency during his time with the Boston Red Sox, Sale has thrived in Atlanta, thanks to improved health and a revitalized approach on the mound. Last season, he won the NL Cy Young Award after throwing 125 ⅔ innings with a 2.58 ERA and 165 strikeouts despite a rib cage fracture. His fastball velocity has returned to its peak levels, and his reliance on a wipeout slider has been instrumental in his resurgence.
The Braves' rotation is currently under significant strain, with several key pitchers sidelined by injuries. While the team has penciled in a group of starters for Opening Day—including Bryce Elder, Grant Holmes, Reynaldo López, Spencer Strider, and Sale—they face uncertainty due to injury concerns and limited options on the free agent market. The Braves' ability to retain Sale provides stability, but they will need contributions from their young pitchers and depth arms like Carlos Carrasco and Martín Pérez to fill gaps this season.
Sale's extension not only addresses immediate team needs but also highlights his importance to the franchise as they rebuild around him. His health and performance have been key factors in his career revival, showcasing how a change of scenery and renewed focus can breathe new life into a player's career. For fans of the Braves and fantasy baseball enthusiasts, Sale's continued dominance is a critical piece of the puzzle for Atlanta's success moving forward.
This deal underscores the importance of keeping core players healthy and competitive as the game evolves. While traditional Hall of Fame milestones may remain elusive for Sale, his impact
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Originally published on CBS Sports on 2/24/2026