The Atlanta Braves entered the offseason with a focus on addressing three key areas: the bullpen, rotation, and outfield. While significant moves have been made in the bullpen, including acquisitions like Joe Jimenez, Pierce Johnson, Aaron Bummer, and Reynaldo Lopez, the rotation has seen limited activity. General Manager Alex Anthopoulos secured the return of Charlie Morton, but the hope for an additional frontline starter remains unfulfilled.
Despite actively exploring the free-agent market, the Braves have encountered challenges in securing the desired additions. However, with several spots available on the 40-man roster, the trade market emerges as a promising avenue for bolstering the rotation. The starting pitcher trade market, as analyzed by Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, presents intriguing options for Atlanta.
At the forefront of the market are pitchers with current or former Cy Young talent, including Dylan Cease, Corbin Burnes, and Shane Bieber. The Braves are reportedly monitoring the situation surrounding White Sox ace Dylan Cease, who holds two years of team control at a cost-effective rate. Burnes of the Brewers is also on the radar, but Milwaukee intends to gauge the market before finalizing any trades. Meanwhile, Bieber’s recent elbow issue and a decline in fastball velocity make him less likely to be a target for the Braves.
Within closer proximity, the Braves could explore trade possibilities with the Miami Marlins. Starters Jesus Luzardo and Edward Cabrera, both with multiple years of control (three and five years, respectively), continue to attract interest. Notably, Atlanta and Miami have engaged in trades in the past, with a notable deal involving Adam Duvall during the 2021 trade deadline. Rosenthal notes that the Marlins’ new president of baseball operations, Peter Bendix, appears more amenable to trading a starter than his predecessor, Kim Ng.
Additionally, a familiar connection with the Houston Astros could prove beneficial for the Braves. Dana Brown, associated with the Astros, has a close relationship with Alex Anthopoulos, and there is speculation about the possibility of left-hander Framber Valdez being available in a trade.
While there are less attractive targets in the market, such as Tristan Beck and Keaton Winn from the Giants, and Ben Brown and Hayden Wesneski from the Cubs, the Braves have a surplus of offensive talent. Players like Vaughn Grissom, Marcell Ozuna, or Travis d’Arnaud could potentially be dangled in front of teams in need of offensive firepower in exchange for a starting pitcher.
As the Braves navigate the trade market, the surplus of bats provides a valuable currency to address the pitching needs and fortify their roster for the upcoming season. The evolving trade landscape promises interesting developments as Atlanta seeks to solidify its rotation and build a competitive team for the challenges ahead.
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