The Braves are already looking for outfield help on the trade market.
Even though the Atlanta Braves are now eight games behind the Philadelphia Phillies in the National League East, their 49-39 record still qualifies them for the first wild card slot in the National League. Still, not everything has gone as planned for the Braves this season, which might lead to some significant moves at the trade deadline.
The Braves have faced hardship all year, whether it’s been failures from important contributors or season-ending injuries to studs like Ronald Acuna Jr. and Spencer Strider. Unsurprisingly, this has resulted in their roster requiring some reinforcements, and it appears that they have already began looking for outfield aid on the trade market.
“According to sources briefed on his conversations, President of Baseball Operations Alex Anthopoulos is already exploring the market for outfielders, holding preliminary discussions with clubs.” But Charlie Morton is forty years old. Reynaldo López makes his first start since 2019. Chris Sale has a lengthy injury history. The Braves intend to continue providing extra rest for their starters. “They might also need to supplement the current group.” – Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic
Braves being proactive in their need for outfield help ahead of the trade deadline
As previously stated, the Braves’ outfield has been put under a lot of pressure this season. Acuna’s season-ending ACL tear was obviously devastating, but Michael Harris II has also been sidelined with a hamstring issue. Jarred Kelenic is the team’s lone remaining starting outfielder.
With that considered, it’s not surprising that the Braves’ outfield is at the top of their list of priorities as the trade deadline approaches. While Harris appears to be on his way back, he wasn’t performing very well previous to his injury, and Adam Duvall is their fourth outfielder.184 for the season.
The good news is that some outfielders will undoubtedly be on the move by the deadline, and Atlanta would be wise to do everything they can to acquire one of them. Veterans Tommy Pham and Kevin Pillar could be available, while more expensive options such as Luis Robert Jr. and Jazz Chisholm Jr. could potentially pique the Braves’ interest.
The Braves have numerous other needs on their roster, such as adding another starting pitcher, but the outfield appears to be their largest weakness right now, and it appears that they are already working to locate someone who can come in and help shore up that place for them. Who that is remains uncertain, but Atlanta is clearly a team to monitor as the deadline approaches.
