With Tom Glavine ailing and the fifth starter spot an open audition, the Braves are facing a starting pitching shortage. The bullpen could use a hand as well, but one thing at a time.
Healthy, possibly available free agent starters include Roger Clemens, Russ Ortiz, Horacio Ramirez, Jeff Weaver, and David Wells. Obviously they all have warts – age, baggage, ineffectiveness. But if one of them can eat innings at a 4.50 ERA, it might make sense.
How about acquiring a starter via trade? Here are some names to ponder: Daniel Cabrera, Joe Blanton, Jason Marquis, Matt Morris, Dave Bush, Matt Belisle, Vicente Padilla, Robinson Tejeda, Jeremy Sowers, Kei Igawa, Kyle Snyder, and Kevin Correia. This list works for other clubs light on pitching, the Tigers for example.
