Height
6'6"
Weight
180 lbs
Age
37
College
Florida Gulf Coast
Draft
2010, Rd 1, #13
Experience
15 yrs
Bats/Throws
L/L
Fan Verdict
Grade this player:
Career StatsA
| Year | Team | GP | ERA | W-L | K | WHIP | IP | SV |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Career |  | 394 | 3.0014355 | 146-88 | 2585 | 1.0454545 | 0.0 | 12 |
Current Contract
Length
2 years
Total Value
$38.0M
Guaranteed
$22.8M
AAV
$19.0M/yr
Contract Value Index (CVI)
The Braves' decision to commit $38 million over two years to Chris Sale earns a D CVI, representing a significant overpay for a pitcher whose elite stuff can no longer overcome his alarming injury track record. While Sale remains a dominant force when healthy — his elite strikeout rate and swing-and-miss arsenal are undeniable — the 35-year-old southpaw has pitched just 20 innings total over the past two seasons due to recurring shoulder and back issues. At $19M AAV, Atlanta is paying ace money for what has become a high-risk lottery ticket, especially problematic given their competitive window with Ronald Acuña Jr. and their core position players entering their primes. The Braves' traditionally shrewd front office appears to have let nostalgia for Sale's 2017-2018 Cy Young caliber seasons cloud their judgment, as this contract allocates precious payroll space to a pitcher who may struggle to reach even 120 innings per season. When healthy, Sale remains franchise-caliber, but availability trumps ability, and this deal ignores the harsh reality that his body has repeatedly broken down at the worst possible moments.
Fan & Media Sentiment
Chris Sale, a starting pitcher for the Braves, carries positive public sentiment based on their elite production. His A+ performance grade positions him among the elite at the starting pitcher position. His accolades include Gold Glove, Cy Young, adding to his standing and public recognition. On a contract worth $19.0M/year, the significant commitment carries meaningful expectations for impact production. Fan sentiment leans positive overall, though some segments remain watchful for more sustained production before fully buying in. At 36, he is in the twilight of his career, and fan sentiment will largely hinge on whether he can defy the aging curve and remain productive.
Recent Games
| Date | OPP | Result | AB | H | R | HR | RBI | BB | SO |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tue, 4/7 | @ LAA | L 2-6 | - | - | - | 0 | - | - | - |
Transaction History
News & Buzz
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