The Atlanta Braves need outfield help, especially after National League MVP Ronald Acuña Jr. tore his ACL at the end of May.
Meanwhile, the Chicago Cubs are struggling, now five games behind the last NL playoff spot. Despite high hopes in Craig Counsell’s first managerial season in Chicago, the Cubs’ situation is looking increasingly dire.
If this trend continues, the Braves will likely be buyers, and the Cubs could become surprise sellers. This dynamic could set up a significant trade at the MLB deadline.
According to The Athletic, interest in Cubs outfielder Cody Bellinger has increased, with the Texas Rangers and New York Yankees recently scouting the 2019 NL MVP. The Braves could also pursue Bellinger if the Cubs continue to struggle.
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Bellinger, 28, is having a respectable season with a .748 OPS/110 OPS+, well above the Braves’ outfield performance, especially with Acuña sidelined.
While trading with the Braves might be difficult for the Cubs, given past tensions, it could benefit both teams. The Braves need an outfield bat, and the Cubs risk losing Bellinger for nothing in the offseason if his performance improves.
Bellinger could play center field while Michael Harris II is out and then move to right field for the rest of the year. The Braves could shift Adam Duvall to a platoon role with Bellinger and/or Jarred Kelenic, improving their chances to challenge the Phillies for the NL East crown.
