In a move that has sent shockwaves through Major League Baseball, Atlanta Braves ace Chris Sale has made his long-term intentions clear, putting an end to weeks of speculation surrounding his future with the franchise.

Following a remarkable bounce-back season that saw the 35-year-old veteran return to dominant form, Sale has reportedly agreed in principle to a multi-year contract extension with the Braves — and he’s made it clear he wants to finish his career in Atlanta.

“This is where I belong,” Sale said in a statement released by the team. “The Braves believed in me when not many others did, and I want to be part of what we’re building here for the long haul.”

Acquired from the Red Sox ahead of the 2024 season, Sale has been nothing short of sensational in Atlanta. He’s posted one of the best ERAs in the National League and reestablished himself as a true top-of-the-rotation force. The Braves’ training staff and careful workload management have helped Sale stay healthy, something that had eluded him in recent years.

The long-term extension — reportedly worth over $60 million across three years with performance-based incentives — signals the Braves’ continued commitment to maintaining a dominant pitching core alongside stars like Max Fried and Spencer Strider.

Braves GM Alex Anthopoulos praised Sale’s leadership and impact on the clubhouse.

“Chris has not only delivered on the mound, but he’s been a mentor to our younger arms and a competitor every fifth day. We’re thrilled to have him locked in.”

With the Braves positioned as one of the top contenders in the National League, Sale’s commitment provides another layer of stability and star power as Atlanta pushes for another World Series run.

In an era of frequent player movement, Chris Sale has chosen loyalty — and Braves fans couldn’t be happier.