As the Atlanta Braves approach the summer and the trade deadline, who would be the ideal trade fit for them?
Despite facing significant challenges, the Atlanta Braves have had a solid start to the season. Few teams could maintain a record well above .500 after losing their best position player and pitcher for the season, but this demonstrates the Braves’ talent and depth.
Although the Braves are performing well, they are still trailing the Philadelphia Phillies in the standings. With plenty of baseball left to play, the Phillies once again appear to be true contenders this season.
Weakness: Outfield
Best Match: Lane Thomas
Ronald Acuña Jr.’s season-ending ACL tear left the Braves with the same dilemma they faced in 2021: how to replace their superstar outfielder. The solution then was not to replace him directly. President of Baseball Operations Alex Anthopoulos opted for a group approach, trading for Jorge Soler, Eddie Rosario, Joc Pederson, and Adam Duvall, which led to a World Series victory. This season, the 28-year-old Washington right fielder Lane Thomas could be the all-in-one answer. Although it would be difficult for Washington to trade Thomas to a division rival, he will become a free agent after next season. Atlanta could keep him as insurance for Acuña or trade him again in the winter.
With the starting rotation excelling even without Spencer Strider, the Atlanta Braves’ offense needs a boost. Acuña’s loss is significant, as he is one of the best hitters in baseball and an MVP contender when healthy. Adding Thomas would give the Braves an outfielder with power and base-stealing ability similar to Acuña’s. While Thomas isn’t on Acuña’s level, he would still be a valuable upgrade.
