
How Dallas Keuchel has done with the Braves
While Kimbrel eventually got a three-year deal from the Cubs, Keuchel wasn’t so lucky before signing a one-year deal with the Atlanta Braves. A rumored target throughout the season, the Twins were interested in signing the left-hander to a deal, but it was not the same level of interest they had in bringing in Keuchel.
When Keuchel officially inked the deal with Atlanta on June 7, this made sense. Jose Berrios (8-3, 3.14 ERA through June 7) and Jake Odorizzi (8-2, 1.96 ERA) were both on their way to making trips to the All-Star game, while the bottom half of the rotation, which included Michael Pineda, Martin Perez and Kyle Gibson seemed to be adequate enough to fill in any question marks.
This combined with a lack of velocity and shoulder issues, seemed to scream “buyer beware” for those who took the plunge on the fellow 31-year old, but unlike Kimbrel, he’s enjoyed a healthy stint with his new employer.
Keuchel has been consistent with the Braves this season, posting an 8-6 record and 3.63 ERA in 17 starts. While there have been bumps in the road (such as an eight-run outing against Miami on Aug. 8 and a five-run start against Philadelphia in his last time out), he’s been consistent posting 11 quality starts for Atlanta.
With Kuchel as a steady force in the rotation, the Braves have taken control of the National League East and seem poised for their second consecutive division title.