Braves Pitching Dilemma

The Braves are 15.5 games back in the division, and they need some help to compete with the Marlins, Mets, and Phillies in 2009. While going after a top tier pitcher makes sense, expect the Braves to aggressively pursue the second tier pitchers: Ryan Dempster and Jon Garland. However, they are going to have to decide whether or not to offer deals to Tom Glavine and John Smoltz. Both have informed reporters that they would like to pitch in the future, but where is uncertain. John Smoltz will likely take a big paycut and head to the bullpen, but Glavine is a different story. He may cost more and may slow down even more in a starting role.

If the Braves chose not to sign him, he could be an option for the Nationals.