No one has had as much success trading for outfielders at the deadline as Alex Anthopoulos and the Atlanta Braves. In 2024, they might be at it again.
After acquiring four veteran outfielders on their way to a World Series title in 2021, the Braves face a similar challenge this year. Ronald Acuña Jr., the 2023 National League MVP, is out for the season once more.
Since Acuña’s injury, the Braves haven’t found a consistent right fielder and have begun bringing in veterans to fill the gap, claiming Ramón Laureano and Eddie Rosario off waivers. However, these are temporary fixes, and Anthopoulos is likely seeking a more long-term solution.
One former big-leaguer turned podcast host thinks he has the answer. Trevor Plouffe, from the Talkin’ Baseball podcast, predicted on Wednesday that the Braves will acquire Jazz Chisholm Jr. from the Miami Marlins at this year’s trade deadline.
“Jazz is getting traded, and they are going to make a move for an outfielder,” Plouffe said. “Give me Jazz Chisholm to the Braves.”
This potential deal makes sense given both teams’ current situations. The Marlins are entering a prolonged rebuild, having already traded All-Star Luis Arraez. Meanwhile, the Braves aim to contend every season, and Chisholm has two more years of team control after 2024.
Chisholm, 26, is one of baseball’s most dynamic players. He boasts both power and speed and was an All-Star in 2024. However, he’s had off-field issues with teammates, inconsistent hitting, and significant injuries.
It’s tough to excel with a team like the Marlins, who have struggled offensively for years. Chisholm could improve with a better lineup around him, a sentiment echoed by Plouffe’s Talkin’ Baseball co-host Jake Storiale.
“Give me Jazz on a really good team. I’d love to see it,” Storiale said. “I think there’s a little more in there.”
If Chisholm is moved at the deadline, the Marlins will likely have many interested teams. Should they be willing to trade him to a division rival, the Braves might secure a game-changing player.
