The Braves' recent signing of Austin Gomber to a minor league deal is an intriguing move, especially considering his recent struggles and the team's strong rotation. Gomber, a 32-year-old left-hander, has had a tumultuous journey in the MLB, marked by injuries and inconsistent performance.
A Tumultuous Journey
Gomber's time with the Rangers was short-lived, as he was released from their minor league pact. His performance at Triple-A was not impressive, with a 7.75 ERA in 33 2/3 innings, allowing 41 hits and 14 unintentional walks. This followed a 2025 season plagued by injuries and underperformance with the Rockies, where he struggled with a 7.49 ERA and a mere 12.5% strikeout rate in 57 2/3 innings.
However, there's a glimmer of hope. Gomber's 2024 season with the Rockies was a stark contrast to his recent struggles. He threw 165 innings over 30 starts, maintaining an impressive 5.5% walk rate and a 4.75 ERA, which is roughly league average when adjusted for Coors Field. FanGraphs valued Gomber at 1.3 WAR, a perfectly acceptable statistic for a No. 5 starter.
The Braves' Calculated Risk
Despite his recent struggles, the Braves are taking a calculated risk on Gomber. Their rotation is currently leading the Majors with a 2.93 ERA through 45 games, and their 23.6% strikeout rate is tied for eighth with the Pirates. The team boasts strong starters like Chris Sale and Bryce Elder, with ERAs under 2.00, and Spencer Strider, who has shown promise despite walk issues. Grant Holmes is a reliable No. 4 starter, and JR Ritchie, a 22-year-old, is just beginning his MLB career.
The Braves' depth has been somewhat depleted by spring injuries to Spencer Schwellenbach and Hurston Waldrep, but Martin Perez provides a reliable long reliever option, having made five starts of at least five innings this year. With Perez as the main depth option, Gomber can focus on rebuilding his confidence and skills at Triple-A, staying ready for a potential call-up if another injury strikes.
Conclusion
The Braves' decision to sign Gomber is a strategic move, leveraging his potential as a serviceable starter. While his recent performance has been underwhelming, his previous success and the team's need for depth make this a calculated risk worth taking. As Gomber continues to rebuild his confidence, the Braves can benefit from his experience and skill, adding another layer of depth to their already strong rotation.
