Amidst offensive struggles and the absence of the reigning NL MVP due to a season-ending injury, the Braves are emerging as a team to closely monitor leading up to the trade deadline. Acquiring bats is the top priority for Atlanta, with the need for multiple outfielders being particularly evident, as highlighted by Jim Bowden in his recent article for The Athletic.
Bowden draws parallels to three years ago when the Braves faced a similar setback with Ronald Acuña Jr.’s injury but rebounded by securing four outfielders (Joc Pederson, Jorge Soler, Eddie Rosario, Adam Duvall) at the trade deadline, ultimately winning the World Series. While replicating that feat might be a tall order, Bowden suggests that Braves’ president of baseball operations Alex Anthopoulos could target one or two outfielders this year.
The resemblance between the current season and 2021 is hard to ignore, with the Braves navigating challenges without their star player. Anthopoulos will likely explore options to bolster the outfield depth, considering Jarred Kelenic and Adam Duvall’s performances thus far. Adding two more outfielders would provide manager Brian Snitker with flexibility in matchups and player rotations, similar to the approach taken in 2021.
Additionally, Bowden mentions the Braves’ potential interest in acquiring a veteran starting pitcher for the back end of the rotation. While notable names like Garrett Crochet and Jesús Luzardo could be available, Anthopoulos typically avoids blockbuster trades for mid-season rotation help. Instead, if a move is made, it’s expected to resemble previous acquisitions such as Jake Odorizzi at the 2022 trade deadline.
