The Atlanta Braves made a low-risk addition to their pitching staff on Friday, aiming to blend depth with flexibility as spring training nears. The club announced it has signed veteran left-hander Martín Pérez to a minor league contract that includes a non-roster invitation to camp, allowing Atlanta to assess his potential without committing a spot on the 40-man roster while giving Pérez an opportunity to earn a role.
Pérez is set to enter his 15th Major League season and brings a résumé that includes an All-Star appearance and a World Series championship with the Texas Rangers in 2023. The 34-year-old pitched for the Chicago White Sox during the 2025 season, where injuries limited his availability but not his effectiveness when healthy.
Across 11 outings last year, Pérez logged a 3.54 ERA over 56 innings, striking out 44 hitters and posting a 1.11 WHIP. His season was cut short by a left shoulder strain after an earlier stint on the injured list due to a flexor tendon issue. Despite the setbacks, he continued to rely on command and contact management rather than overpowering velocity.
According to a report from MLB.com’s Mark Bowman and Theo DeRosa, Atlanta views Pérez as a pitcher looking to demonstrate health and reliability as camp opens.
The signing adds competition to the Braves’ rotation mix, with Pérez joining Bryce Elder, Grant Holmes, and Hurston Waldrep in the battle for depth roles. He could factor in as a fifth starter or long-relief option depending on performance and durability.
From Atlanta’s perspective, the value lies in experience and flexibility. Pérez offers more than 1,600 career innings, experience in both leagues, and the ability to adapt to multiple roles. If he makes the roster, it would mark his seventh MLB organization; if not, the Braves still gain Triple-A depth while preserving roster options heading into the season.
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