The Atlanta Braves are not accustomed to being underdogs in the National League East, but that’s their position in 2024.
With a record of 51-40, the Braves trail the Philadelphia Phillies by 8.5 games. The Phillies have also eliminated Atlanta from the postseason in the past two years. Despite having a strong hold on their postseason hopes, the Braves face more uncertainties than in previous seasons.
This year, Atlanta boasts one of the most efficient starting rotations in baseball, keeping them competitive despite injuries and offensive struggles. However, the latter part of the rotation is less certain, a situation the Braves might address at the crucial trade deadline.
According to an insider, the Braves are already exploring trade options.
In his midseason trade deadline analysis, Jim Bowden of The Athletic identified the Braves as a potential destination for breakout star Erick Fedde of the Chicago White Sox.
“Veteran starter Erick Fedde seems most likely to be traded from the White Sox, with the Cardinals, Orioles, and Braves as the top contenders,” Bowden stated.
Fedde, 31, is having an outstanding season. After five scoreless innings in a recent win, he holds a 2.99 ERA, with 111.1 innings pitched and 99 strikeouts, and a 7-3 record, impressive given the White Sox’s current 27-68 record.
After pitching in Korea in 2023, Fedde has emerged as a revelation. Previously struggling with a 5.41 ERA over six MLB seasons, he revamped his pitching arsenal by dropping his curveball in favor of a sweeper, significantly improving his effectiveness.
Adding Fedde would bolster the Braves’ rotation. Spencer Schwellenbach and Charlie Morton could shift to long relief roles in the postseason, with Fedde also a possible option in short series.
The competition for Fedde will be fierce, particularly in a seller’s market at the trade deadline. However, acquiring him could be the move that elevates the Braves in October.
