Alec Manoa Gets Another Chance in MLB

Alec Manoa is getting another opportunity in the majors. Just days after being designated for assignment by the Blue Jays, he was claimed by the Braves on Friday.

At 27, Manoa finds himself in a strange spot in his career, especially after being an All-Star and coming close to winning the American League CY Young Award just three years ago.

He finished third in the CY Young voting back in 2022, boasting a record of 16-7 and an impressive 2.24 ERA. Last year, during his rookie season, he had a solid 3.22 ERA over 20 starts.

But since those high points, things have taken a downturn. Manoa was named the starter for the Blue Jays’ opening day in 2023, yet by June, he had been demoted to the Florida Complex League following a series of disappointing performances.

This year, Manoa recorded a 3.70 ERA across 24 innings before undergoing surgery on his elbow, which effectively ended his season.

Despite his struggles, he showed promise while rehabbing at Triple-A Buffalo, where he secured a 2.97 ERA in seven starts before being released. Manoa mentioned earlier this year, “I work every day… It’s definitely tough, but also satisfying.”

The Braves seem to believe they can help revitalize Manoa’s career in a way that the Blue Jays could not.

Blue Jays general manager Ross Atkins expressed the difficulty of letting Manoa go, citing roster challenges. “These decisions are never easy,” he noted. “It was the best course of action to support the team as we push forward.”