The Winter Meetings are on the horizon, sparking excitement among baseball fans eagerly anticipating potential rumors and deals. For enthusiasts like the author, this time of the year is thrilling, akin to playing the role of a general manager in a video game. The focus is on the Atlanta Braves, with Alex Anthopoulos potentially having some strategic moves up his sleeve.
Anthopoulos has already strengthened the Braves’ roster, notably enhancing the bullpen, which stands in a better position than the previous year. The return of Charlie Morton adds to the team’s stability, placing them in a situation similar to last year, with the exception of some relief core adjustments. However, left field presents a gap, and there’s a desire among fans for an additional reliable arm in the rotation, even though the Braves are well-positioned for another postseason run.
While the current roster is robust, there is always room for upgrades. The free-agent and trade markets offer promising opportunities, featuring players like Jordan Montgomery, Eduardo Rodriguez, Lourdes Gurriel Jr., Adam Duvall, Tommy Pham, Joc Pederson, Dylan Cease, Corbin Burnes, Tyler Glasnow, and Randy Arozarena. However, Jim Bowden of The Athletic proposes a different target for the Braves – Shane Bieber from the Guardians via trade.
Bowden dismisses the recent pursuits of Aaron Nola and Sonny Gray, suggesting that acquiring the right-handed starter Bieber could be the optimal move. Bieber, the 2020 AL Cy Young winner, endured a challenging 2023 season due to right elbow inflammation, but he remains a coveted talent. The suggested trade package involves pitching prospect Spencer Schwellenbach and versatile infielder Vaughn Grissom. If needed, Atlanta could also explore a one-for-one trade involving right-hander AJ Smith-Shawver or engage a third team to fulfill the Guardians’ needs for a power-hitting corner outfielder.
Bieber’s performance has seen a decline in strikeouts since his outstanding 2020 season, attributed in part to a dip in velocity and a shoulder injury in 2021. While he may not return to his peak, his effectiveness remains notable, recording a 2.88 ERA in 2022 and a 3.80 ERA in 2023. However, concerns arise given Bieber’s deteriorating arm, one-year, $12 million contract for his final arbitration year. The author expresses conditional support for the trade, advocating for a reasonable deal but wary of overcommitting for a potentially declining pitcher.
Leave a Reply