The Braves are back in action this weekend against the Cardinals, followed by a frantic lead-up to the trade deadline, with expectations high that Alex Anthopoulos will be one of the most active GMs in the league.
The main areas for improvement are the outfield and shortstop. It should be relatively easy to find a few players to add alongside Adam Duvall, Eddie Rosario, and Jarred Kelenic, but upgrading from Orlando Arica at shortstop might prove more difficult due to limited options.
The Braves’ pitching staff is among the best in baseball, but don’t expect Alex Anthopoulos to be complacent. He has a history of strengthening already strong positions, as seen with the Sean Murphy trade despite having two All-Star catchers.
Acquiring relievers won’t be costly, so it wouldn’t be surprising if Anthopoulos adds one. However, starting pitchers are the priciest acquisitions at the trade deadline, even though Atlanta’s rotation is already solid.
The Braves’ top three starters, Max Fried, Chris Sale, and Reynaldo Lopez, are as good as any in baseball. The rotation is further strengthened by veteran Charlie Morton and young talent Spencer Schwellenbach, with Bryce Elder, Ian Anderson, and AJ Smith-Shawver waiting in the minors.
It’s a position of strength that may become a focal point, according to USA Today Sports’ Bob Nightengale, who reports that the Braves are among several teams looking to add a starting pitcher at the trade deadline.
“Can you spare a starter? The Los Angeles Dodgers, St. Louis Cardinals, Baltimore Orioles, San Diego Padres, Milwaukee Brewers, Houston Astros, and Atlanta are all seeking at least one more starter for the stretch run,” Nightengale said.
There are a couple of reasons for this. Firstly, injuries are inevitable, and the Braves know firsthand how they can impact a rotation. Addressing potential problems before they arise is a smart move.
Secondly, the Braves have a reputation for anticipating future needs. They did it with Raisel Iglesias, Pierce Johnson, and Joe Jimenez, and Anthopoulos could do the same with the rotation.
With Charlie Morton’s retirement and Max Fried’s free agency on the horizon, the Braves might soon need replacements. Adding another starting pitcher could provide insurance for this season and help for 2025 and beyond, making it a valuable move.
