Erick Fedde: From Washington Remnant to Hopeful Revival
There was a time when it seemed like Erick Fedde would never see the MLB again. After a rocky 2022 with the Washington Nationals, with an ERA above 5.80 and a series of early shutouts in the third inning, his career was on the rocks.
But instead of giving up, Fedde did what few would dare: he moved to South Korea.
Resurrection in Korea
Joining the NC Dinos in the KBO, Fedde didn’t just revive. He transformed. With a 95 mph throw, improved control, and renewed confidence, he won the 2023 KBO MVP award with a 20–6 record, a 2.00 ERA, and over 200 strikeouts.
Fedde was no longer a suspect pitcher. He was a weapon. And MLB teams were starting to take notice.
St. St. Louis – Fedde’s Second Chance
The Cardinals signed Fedde to a two-year deal at the start of the 2024 season. For a team trying to rebuild its pitching lineup, Fedde was seen as a “bridge” solution — someone who could play consistently while also setting an example for the younger players.
And he has lived up to that trust. In 20 appearances for St. Louis this season, Fedde has a 3.78 ERA, a 1.18 WHIP, and a number of quality games that have helped the Cardinals stay in the game. He’s not an ace, but he’s the type of pitcher you’d count on in the third game of a playoff series.
Why trade now?
So why did the Cardinals let Fedde go?
The answer lies in the long-term strategy. St. Louis is doing a “soft rebuild” — not completely tearing down the lineup, but also not trying to hold on to players who aren’t part of the plan for 2026 and beyond. With rising pitching prospects like Tink Hence and Cooper Hjerpe, the Cardinals were forced to “open up.”
And the Atlanta Braves — with a roster that was in shambles due to injuries — pounced like a shark on blood.
Atlanta Braves: Finding Stability in a Storm
After losing Spencer Strider to an elbow injury and Max Fried not yet at his peak, the Braves were in dire need of a steady name — someone who could throw 5–6 innings and keep games in check.
Fedde was the perfect name. He wasn’t an ace, but he was a wall of fire in a storm.
Here’s the catch: Fedde could see the Cardinals again in the postseason if the Braves and Cards both make the playoffs. Could it be a sweet “revenge tour”?
Final Message: Thank You, Erick
St. Louis said goodbye to Fedde with a simple photo: “Thank you, Erick Fedde.” No fanfare. No long goodbyes.
But for those who have followed his journey of rebirth — from Nationals disappointment, to KBO MVP, to MLB comeback with the Cardinals — the photo is more than a thank you.
It’s an acknowledgement. That Fedde has made his mark. That perseverance can be rewarded. And that sometimes, all it takes is one team to believe in you… to change your career.
Wrapping Up
Erick Fedde has been at rock bottom. But through hard work, the courage to find himself in a foreign land, and a never-say-die attitude, he’s continuing his incredible journey.
Atlanta may just be the next stop. But if Fedde throws six scoreless innings in a crucial playoff game this fall, don’t be surprised.
He’s been ready for that moment for a long time.