Atlanta Braves claim Toronto Blue Jays starting pitcher Alek Manoah off of waivers

The Braves have claimed right-hander Alek Manoah off waivers from the Blue Jays, according to announcements from both clubs.

To open a 40-man spot for Manoah, Atlanta transferred infielder Ozzie Albies to the 60-day injured list.

The 27-year-old, who hasn't pitched in the Majors since May of 2024, joins a Braves franchise featuring Canadian general manager Alex Anthopoulos, who served as the GM of the Blue Jays from 2009-2015.

Manoah was designated for assignment on Tuesday after failing to find his form following an All-Star season in 2022.

Manoah is under arbitration control through the end of 2027.

He made $2.2MM this season and will be in line for a matching rate next year.

Manoah is controllable for another two seasons with Atlanta and still has two minor league options, the Braves could have him begin next season in Triple-A.

The upside Manoah offers is obvious, as he finished third in AL Cy Young voting during the 2022 season off the back of a 2.24 ERA in 196 1/3 innings of work.

Manoah is still just 27 years old and will hardly break the bank for the Braves, making him one of the more intriguing late-season waiver pick-ups in recent memory.