The Atlanta Braves hoped Chris Sale would return to his former glory this season. They invested in him by trading infielder Vaughn Grissom and signing Sale to an extension. Unfortunately, they lost ace Spencer Strider to Tommy John surgery for the year. Young lefty Max Fried has now shared what he’s learned from the future Hall of Famer and Cy Young favorite.

Via Jeff Passan:

“BREAKING: The Atlanta Braves are acquiring seven-time All-Star Chris Sale in a trade with the Boston Red Sox, sources tell ESPN. Well-regarded infield prospect Vaughn Grissom is the return to Boston, which will send money with Sale, who waived his no-trade clause to join Atlanta.”

This deal was unexpected, but the Red Sox’s decision is understandable. Sale has struggled with injuries over the past few seasons after signing a five-year, $145 million extension in 2019, making only 31 starts in the last three years. Boston’s patience with the southpaw may have been wearing thin.

For the Braves, the risk is worth it. Sale is a seven-time All-Star and was once one of the most dominant starters in baseball, finishing in the top five in AL Cy Young voting for six consecutive seasons. Atlanta’s rotation, which already includes Spencer Strider, Max Fried, Charlie Morton, and Bryce Elder, will be significantly strengthened if Sale can stay healthy.