Atlanta Braves: Three free agents to target this offseason

ATLANTA, GA - SEPTEMBER 20: The Braves celebrate winning the NL East Division title after winning the MLB game between the Atlanta Braves and the San Francisco on September 20, 2019 at SunTrust Park in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by David John Griffin/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
ATLANTA, GA - SEPTEMBER 20: The Braves celebrate winning the NL East Division title after winning the MLB game between the Atlanta Braves and the San Francisco on September 20, 2019 at SunTrust Park in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by David John Griffin/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
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(Photo by Stephen Brashear/Getty Images)
(Photo by Stephen Brashear/Getty Images)

Wade Miley, LHP, HOU

Wade Miley is a crafty, veteran lefty than has been to the playoffs the last two season, with the Milwaukee Brewers in 2018 and with the Houston Astros this season. He has proven to be a workhorse that can be clutch in vital moments.

Over 33 starts, the 32-year-old went 14-6, posting a 3.98 ERA over 167 1/3 innings, while striking out 140 batters.

Dallas Keuchel will most likely walk in free agency, leaving Max Fried as the only left-handed starter in the Atlanta Braves rotation. Atlanta could use another left-handed starter and Miley is available and not very expensive.

The Astros had Miley on a one-year, $4.5 million contract. However, he was more impressive and started more games this season than in 2018. His market value definitely rose after his 2019 campaign. A two- or three-year contract would make sense for both parties.

Even though there are other lefties on the market, (Madison Bumgarner, Hyun-Jin Ryu, and Cole Hamels), Miley makes the most sense because he is on the younger side of this group and he will be the most cost-effective. His performance will surpass his paid value once again.

Miley is not an ace but would make a great addition to the middle of the Braves’ rotation. Having a left like Miley would definitely help the Braves win their third consecutive NL East title.