Braves Secure Ryan Rolison in MLB Trade Deal
The Atlanta Braves have acquired Ryan Rolison, a left-handed pitcher, from the Colorado Rockies in a bid to strengthen their bullpen. The deal comes after the Rockies designated Rolison for assignment, and in return, they received cash considerations. This trade is part of a buy-low strategy for the Braves, as they look to enhance their roster significantly.
Ryan Rolison’s Career Overview
Ryan Rolison was a promising talent, being selected 22nd overall in the first round of the 2018 MLB Draft by the Rockies. He signed for over $2.9 million. Despite being a top prospect initially, his career faced several challenges that hindered his progress toward the major leagues.
Challenges and Setbacks
- Minor league season canceled in 2020 due to the pandemic.
- Injuries, especially shoulder issues, limited his playing time.
- He pitched only 71 2/3 innings in 2021.
- Missed the entire 2022 MLB season.
- Appeared in just 11 innings in 2023 before completing a modest 46 1/3 innings in 2024.
Initially, Rolison worked as a starting pitcher. However, he has primarily transitioned to a bullpen role in recent outings.
2025 Season Performance
In 2025, Rolison finally reached the major leagues but struggled significantly. Over 42 1/3 innings with the Rockies, he allowed 33 earned runs, resulting in a 7.02 ERA. His strikeout rate stood at 13%, with a walk rate of 10.4%, both below acceptable thresholds.
Minor League Performance
Despite his challenges at the major league level, Rolison’s minor league performance shows signs of potential. In 2023 at the Triple-A level, he pitched 29 2/3 innings in the Pacific Coast League, where he recorded:
- 3.34 ERA
- 25.2% strikeout rate
- 7.1% walk rate
- 48.8% ground ball rate
Current Situation with the Braves
With the transaction, the Braves increase their 40-man roster count to 38. They view this acquisition as an opportunity to develop Rolison further. He has one option year remaining, allowing Atlanta the flexibility to assign him to the minors for additional development.
Rolison has a total of two years and 114 days of service time and has not yet qualified for arbitration. This means the Braves can control him for up to four seasons, potentially extending to five if he spends considerable time in the minors.
Historically, the Braves have successfully added relievers from Colorado, such as Pierce Johnson and Brad Hand. With Rolison, they hope to unearth another undervalued gem and strengthen their left-handed relief options, although he is currently positioned seventh or eighth on their depth chart.
