The Atlanta Braves have been making headlines with their potential moves to bolster the rotation ahead of the MLB trade deadline. Following another disappointing performance from Charlie Morton in a 7-5 loss to the Arizona Diamondbacks, the need for additional pitching help has become evident. Here are four potential starting pitchers the Braves could target before the deadline, listed in no particular order:
Garrett Crochet – Chicago White Sox
Garrett Crochet, a 25-year-old left-hander, is having a breakout season as a starting pitcher for the White Sox. Despite being a valuable young asset with two years of control remaining, the White Sox might consider trading him due to their poor season and weak farm system. The Braves could benefit from Crochet’s youth and talent, especially with Morton’s struggles and the uncertainty surrounding Max Fried’s future. Acquiring Crochet would likely require the Braves to part with top pitching prospects and possibly a position player.
Tarik Skubal – Detroit Tigers
Tarik Skubal has attracted interest from the Braves, which is unsurprising given his impressive 2.37 ERA and 0.90 WHIP in 18 starts this season. The Tigers, however, are aiming for long-term contention and trading their ace could delay their plans. To acquire Skubal, the Braves would need to offer MLB-ready players, potentially including pitchers like AJ Smith-Shawver, Hurston Waldrep, or Spencer Schwellenbach, and possibly a bat like Nacho Alvarez.
Zach Eflin – Tampa Bay Rays
Zach Eflin has emerged as a potential target for the Braves. The Rays’ de facto No. 1 starter has a 3.99 ERA, 1.11 WHIP, and 78 strikeouts in 99 1/3 innings this season. Eflin’s playoff experience, including a solid 2022 postseason with the Phillies, adds to his appeal. The Braves could leverage taking on Eflin’s salary to lower the acquisition cost, which might only require a quality prospect.
Nathan Eovaldi – Texas Rangers
With Max Scherzer unlikely to waive his no-trade clause, the Braves might turn their attention to Nathan Eovaldi. The 34-year-old is having a stellar season with a 3.10 ERA and 1.03 WHIP in 15 starts. Eovaldi also brings valuable playoff and championship experience. He has a vesting option for 2025, which kicks in if he reaches 300 total innings across 2023 and 2024. Given his injury history, the Braves might not have to give up as much in a trade for Eovaldi, but the potential reward makes it worth considering.
The MLB trade deadline is on July 30 at 4 p.m., and the Braves will need to act swiftly if they wish to strengthen their rotation for a postseason run.
