Chris Sale discusses his uncertain future with the Atlanta Braves

Chris Sale is entering the final year of his contract with the Atlanta Braves in 2026 and says he is focused on the present while recovering from a rib injury that cost him the second half of the 2026 season.

Chris Sale is entering the final year of his contract with the Atlanta Braves in 2026 and says he is concentrating on the present. He told WSB-TV he does not want to get too far ahead of himself and described his role simply as a baseball player rather than a businessman. The article reports he is recovering from a rib injury that cost him the second half of the 2026 season. His performance in Atlanta has prompted conversation about whether the team will retain him long term. Key facts: - The article reports Sale signed a two-year deal with the Braves in 2024 worth $38 million and that the contract includes a club option for 2026. - Over two years with Atlanta he started 49 games, posted 390 strikeouts, a 1.035 WHIP, a 2.33 FIP, a 25-8 record, and a reported 10.2 WAR across 303.1 innings pitched. - Sale won the Cy Young Award in 2024 after winning the pitcher's triple crown (leading the league in wins, ERA and strikeouts). - The Braves acquired Sale in a trade that involved infielder Vaughn Grissom and $17 million in cash considerations. - Braves general manager Alex Anthopoulos said he hopes Sale remains with the team as long as Sale wants to continue playing. Summary: Sale's present-focused comments leave the club's longer-term pitching picture open. Spring Training is scheduled to begin February 21 and Opening Day is March 27, which are the next competitive dates cited in the article. Contract resolution and whether Sale remains with Atlanta beyond the option are undetermined at this time.