Though it is not clear how serious trade talks are, the Braves appear to be in the mix for the services of future Hall of Famer Adrian Beltre:
Sources: #Rangers, #Braves have discussed Adrian Beltre in trade talks; extent of progress is unclear. @Sullivan_Ranger reports Beltre is more inclined to approve deals to #RedSox, #Astros and possibly #Indians. Our full story: https://t.co/fWuvJiW8KG @MLB @MLBNetwork
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) July 30, 2018
Context on Adrian Beltre trade talks: He is 39. Full no-trade clause. He likely will prioritize team that has best chance to win World Series and/or place where he has familiarity. He played for #RedSox, for Terry Francona (#Indians), for Theo Epstein (#Cubs). @MLB @MLBNetwork
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) July 30, 2018
Beltre’s power output has been low this season, but he has still hit for great average and could easily catch fire with a change of scenery for a contending team. The Braves have added a couple nice bullpen arms without giving up serious long-term assets, and that would most certainly have to be the case for the Braves to pick him up.
A Beltre trade could also allow the Braves to platoon Dansby Swanson and Johan Camargo at shortstop, as Swanson has only mustered a .211 average against lefties this season.
Stay tuned.