Never say never: Betting odds on Braves, Darvish pairing

If you’re hoping the Braves open the checkbook and bring in a frontline starting pitcher, these odds may interest you.

The Braves have 9/2 odds to sign Yu Darvish, the third-best in MLB, according to MyTopSportsbooks.com. The Cardinals are the favorites at 13/7 with Minnesota second at 7/2. The field is 3/1.

Darvish is commonly regarded as the best free-agent starter. He boasts a 3.44 career ERA and is often among the league’s strikeout leaders, posting 209 last season with the Rangers and Dodgers.

After being dealt to the Dodgers at the trade deadline, Darvish’s numbers improved across the board in 49-2/3 innings. He lost both his World Series starts – including getting shelled in Game 7 – which has some questioning how it’ll impact his value.

While the odds-makers may see an avenue, it’s extremely unlikely new general manager Alex Anthopoulos and the Braves delve into what’s sure to be a steep bidding war. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution has previously reported that if the Braves add a significant starter, it will be through trade rather than free agency.