Atlanta Braves Land Corbin Burnes in Blockbuster Deal Worth $437.4 Million
In a groundbreaking move, the Atlanta Braves have secured former Milwaukee Brewers ace Corbin Burnes in a blockbuster deal worth $437.4 million over nine years. The deal, finalized late Monday night, marks one of the most significant transactions in MLB history, solidifying Atlanta’s position as a perennial contender in the National League.
Burnes, 30, has been a dominant force on the mound, winning the 2021 NL Cy Young Award and consistently ranking among the league’s top pitchers. Known for his devastating cutter and elite strikeout ability, Burnes posted a 3.24 ERA and 210 strikeouts in 2023, cementing his status as one of baseball’s premier arms.
The Braves, who fell short in the 2023 postseason, were eager to bolster their rotation, addressing one of their most pressing needs. “Corbin is a game-changer,” said Braves General Manager Alex Anthopoulos. “Adding a pitcher of his caliber puts us in an excellent position to compete for championships in the coming years.”
The deal includes a full no-trade clause and a record-setting average annual value of $48.6 million, making Burnes the highest-paid pitcher in MLB history. The Brewers, in turn, will receive a package of top prospects, including outfielder Drew Waters and right-hander AJ Smith-Shawver, signaling a shift toward a rebuilding phase in Milwaukee.
Burnes expressed excitement about joining the Braves’ star-studded roster, which features Ronald Acuña Jr., Matt Olson, and Austin Riley. “I’m thrilled to be part of a team with such a winning tradition and can’t wait to compete in front of the passionate fans at Truist Park,” Burnes said during his introductory press conference.
With Burnes anchoring their rotation, the Braves appear poised to chase their second World Series title in four years, further elevating their status as an MLB powerhouse.