Talks Reportedly Heating Up Between Braves and Dallas Keuchel
By Scott Rogust
The Chicago Cubs finally got Craig Kimbrel off the open market on Wednesday night, and it looks as though Dallas Keuchel will be off the board very shortly himself.
According to MLB insider Ken Rosenthal, Keuchel and the Atlanta Braves are in serious talks as of Thursday evening. However, Rosenthal stresses that it's unknown whether there's a deal in place, or if the defending NL East champs are still facing significant competition.
#Braves in serious talks with free-agent left-hander Dallas Keuchel, sources tell The Athletic. Unclear whether deal is in place and whether other teams are still involved. @Feinsand mentioned Braves earlier as front-runner.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) June 7, 2019
Just days ago, the New York Yankees were believed to be the frontrunners to sign the veteran left-hander. The thing is, however, that the Yankees are reportedly limiting their offer to a one-year deal, while other teams are pushing into the multi-year range, according to George A. King III of the New York Post.
The Braves, who are nipping at the heels of the Philadelphia Phillies for the NL East lead, could use some help in their starting rotation. With veterans like Mike Foltynewicz and Kevin Gausman struggling this year, Keuchel will certainly add stability to Brian Snitker's team.
Braves in 'serious talks' with Dallas Keuchel https://t.co/F8x6Rfh5vD
— Rotoworld Baseball (@Rotoworld_BB) June 7, 2019
After months of waiting, Dallas Keuchel may have a new home shortly. If he does end up in the ATL, it's a feather in the Braves' cap. Fending off the Yankees on the free agent market is no small feat.