The Atlanta Braves, who have already been linked to Chris Sale in reports, are also pursuing Chris Archer and Sonny Gray, according to sources.

"They're doing everything they can to be competitive and try to contend next year," a rival executive said of the Braves, who will open SunTrust Park.

The Braves have already signed R.A Dickey and Bartolo Colon to one-year deals this offseason to serve as bridges until some of their young pitchers are ready.