Braves lose their former first round pick to hated division rival

It’s always disheartening to see a former Atlanta Braves player sign with a team within the NL East division. Baseball can be an unforgiving sport, even for a team like the Braves, who often find success. This sentiment is especially true for prospects, as the margin for error in transitioning to the major leagues is incredibly narrow. A single injury or a failed adjustment can be the defining factor between becoming a regular in the big leagues or languishing in the minors.

Kolby Allard’s journey embodies this precarious nature of baseball careers. Drafted by the Braves in the first round of the 2015 draft, Allard’s selection at the #14 pick was seen as a stroke of luck due to his previous consideration as a top 5 pick before a back injury during his draft year. Despite swiftly progressing through the minor leagues, Allard struggled to regain the velocity he showcased in high school upon reaching the majors in 2018.

However, Allard’s time with the Braves was short-lived, as he was traded to the Texas Rangers as part of the Chris Martin deal after a disappointing start to his professional career. Despite facing challenges in Texas, the Braves reacquired Allard before the 2023 season. Unfortunately, his return was marred by a nerve issue in his shoulder, limiting him to just four appearances before ending his season prematurely.

Following this setback, the Braves opted not to retain Allard, allowing him to become a free agent. Unfortunately, he ended up signing with one of the Braves’ division rivals, the Philadelphia Phillies, on a one-year deal.

While it’s never ideal to see a former player join a division rival, especially one as competitive as the Phillies, Allard’s recent injury history and inconsistent performance raise questions about his potential upside. Nonetheless, his knowledge of the Braves’ strategies and players could offer valuable insights to the Phillies, who pose a significant threat to Atlanta in the National League.

Despite his struggles, Allard is regarded as a dedicated and well-liked teammate. His lack of success with the Braves wasn’t for a lack of effort on his part, highlighting the unpredictable nature of baseball careers. While it would be satisfying to see Allard thrive in Philadelphia, it’s hoped that his success doesn’t come at the expense of the Braves’ aspirations.