Kris Medlen has found himself among the candidates to be non-tendered prior to tonight’s deadline thanks to the uncertainty that surrounds when he’ll be ready to pitch in 2015, but the Atlanta Braves have reportedly been working to reach a new deal to keep the right-hander under contract. MLB.com’s Mark Bowman reports that the two sides have discussed a two year deal, noting that it’s also possible that they could offer him a one year deal with an option.
Because of the uncertainty surrounding his 2015 season, the #Braves have discussed a two-year deal with Kris Medlen.
— Mark Bowman (@mlbbowman) December 2, 2014
There is also a chance the #Braves could offer Medlen a one-year deal w/ an option that would be exercised if he finds some success in '15
— Mark Bowman (@mlbbowman) December 2, 2014
Medlen is recovering from his second Tommy John surgery after undergoing the procedure last March. He missed the entire 2014 season and may not be available to the Braves until the All Star break, so there is some risk involved in carrying him at the $5.8 million that MLB Trade Rumors projects him to earn in his final year or arbitration.
Few pitchers have returned after undergoing the procedure a second time. The Braves are familiar with the risks, having just watched Jonny Venters struggle in his rehab attempts – ultimately facing the surgery for a third time.
The two contract variations that Bowman mentions could both make sense for Medlen and the team. He could end up with an increased overall guarantee over the two years, limiting some of the initial cost to the Braves this coming season. Backloading the deal could also alleviate some of the pressure off of Medlen to return as quickly as he can, not having to worry about facing the open market at season’s end. There is plenty of wiggle room for potential incentives as well.