The Athletic Suggests Hypothetical Braves Trade for A’s Slugger
With the trade deadline a month away, the Braves are in dire need of outfield support. Michael Harris II is expected back soon, but Adam Duvall should avoid facing right-handed pitchers for the remainder of the season, and Forrest Wall and Ramon Laureano are unreliable as consistent starters.
The Braves are likely to add at least one outfielder, possibly multiple, similar to their strategy in 2021 when Alex Anthopoulos made four separate outfield trades before the deadline.
David O’Brien of The Athletic proposed four trade hypotheticals to Jim Bowden, the first involving a trade with the Athletics for Brent Rooker in exchange for a couple of top prospects.
Rooker, coming off an All-Star season in 2023, continues to excel with 15 homers and an OPS of .841 in 71 games this season, boasting a 143 OPS+, 43% above league average. His team-friendly contract runs through 2027, providing a long-term solution for the Braves’ outfield until Ronald Acuña Jr. can fully return.
Despite concerns about Rooker’s defense, which suggests he is better suited as a DH, his offensive prowess outweighs current outfield deficiencies. He could transition to a permanent DH role once the Braves move on from Marcell Ozuna, likely after the 2025 season.
The proposed trade involves a significant return for Rooker, who is primarily a DH. Cade Kuehler, drafted in the second round last year, has been outstanding with a 2.52 ERA over 11 starts for the low-A Augusta Green Jackets. Luis Guanipa is a promising young outfielder, and E.J. Exposito is having a breakout season in High-A Rome.
Although it might be a slight overpay, this trade could help the Braves win a World Series this year and strengthen the team for future seasons, addressing their most pressing need.
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