Adam Duvall fell flat on his face after being traded to Atlanta last year. The slugger hit an embarrassing .132 at the plate and had one more extra-base hit for the Braves than me and you. Still, Anthopoulos opted to settle for just under $3 million in arbitration with Duvall, keeping him around to serve as organizational depth, and he’s been unbelievable for the Stripers
On Sunday, Duvall hit his 28th homer of the season in AAA, tying Ernesto Mejia for the Gwinnett single-season record. However, it took Mejia 110 games to reach that number. Duvall made it there in 84 games.
Adam Duvall (@aduvall123) has just hit his 28th home run of the season, tying the Gwinnett single-season record set by Ernesto Mejia in 2013. Duvall hit his 28th in just his 84th game of the year, while Mejia reached the mark in 110 games. #StripersNotes
— Dave Lezotte (@DaveLezotte) July 14, 2019
The 30-year-old probably did not envision going from NL All-Star to AAA in just a few years, but he’s making the most of his opportunity and waiting for his next chance at the major league level. Along with his power numbers, Duvall’s hitting for a much higher average (.262) than he usually does and striking out at a lesser rate. Unfortunately for him, because of how consistent and healthy the Braves roster has been, his number has yet to be called, and it remains to be seen if it ever will.
Brian Snitker recently informed us that Ender Inciarte will be joining the team during the next homestand. That means somebody has to be sent down. It could be a bench bat like Matt Joyce, or the Braves might roll with a short-handed bullpen for a few weeks. Either way, a call up for Duvall does not appear to be in the near future. On 95 percent of the teams in baseball, he’s on the major league roster, which is why he has become a prime trade candidate.
There should be several teams interested in bringing in a power bat at the trade deadline, especially in the American League. Duvall also comes with two more arbitration years left on his contract. His struggles in 2018 will saturate his value, but if the Braves could add another prospect or two, it may be worth it.
Atlanta will be strictly focused on improving their pitching staff at the trade deadline. They do not need any more offense to become the favorites in the National League. Bringing in more prospects will only make it easier for them to strike other deals for pitching. As promising as Duvall has looked, there is no room for him in Atlanta this year or in the future.