Chris Sale Signs Lucrative One-Year, $27 Million Extension with Atlanta Braves

The Atlanta Braves have secured one of baseballs premier left-handed pitchers for another season, announcing that Chris Sale has signed a one-year, $27 million contract extension that includes a club option for 2028. The deal represents a significant investment in the veteran starter who has emerged as a cornerstone of Atlantas championship aspirations.

Sales extension comes on the heels of an outstanding 2025 season that reminded the baseball world why he was once considered among the games most dominant pitchers. The 35-year-old southpaw rediscovered his devastating fastball-slider combination while maintaining the durability that had eluded him during injury-plagued seasons earlier in his career.

The financial commitment reflects the Braves confidence in Sales ability to continue performing at an elite level despite his age and injury history. At $27 million for 2026, the contract places Sale among the highest-paid pitchers in baseball, demonstrating Atlantas belief that his contributions are essential to their World Series hopes.

For Sale, the extension provides security while allowing him to remain with an organization that has maximized his talents and managed his workload effectively. The Braves player development and medical staff have been credited with helping Sale maintain his health and effectiveness, making Atlanta an ideal landing spot for the veteran to continue his career.

The inclusion of a 2028 club option gives the Braves flexibility to retain Sale beyond 2026 if he continues to perform at a high level. This structure protects the organization from long-term risk while providing Sale with the opportunity to earn additional compensation if he maintains his current form.

Sales presence in the Braves rotation provides manager Brian Snitker with a proven veteran capable of handling high-pressure situations and mentoring younger pitchers. His leadership qualities and postseason experience make him invaluable to a team with championship aspirations, justifying the substantial financial investment Atlanta has made to secure his services.