When it comes to the depth of the Braves farm system, they lack a lot of talent at the bottom levels. But at the top, there are still plenty of names that will interest outside teams, especially ones in need of pitching. The Braves have always emphasized collecting as many arms as possible, and it’s paid off, but now, they currently have a logjam at the AAA-MLB level, which could result in a couple of trades this offseason.
I don’t expect another blockbuster move like we saw last year with Matt Olson. The shortstop position will (hopefully) be filled via free agency, but adding another outfielder is a different story. There are some guys on the free agent market that I like, but there are several that could be available through trade that are even better options.
Anthony Santander
The Orioles showed this past season they are ready to compete, even in a loaded AL East. So why would they trade one of their best power bats? Because they are the Orioles… This is what they do. To stay competitive in the most competitive division in baseball without a high payroll, they must be extremely efficient, so they are constantly wheeling and dealing. Santander is coming off a career year — one in which he blasted 33 homers — and Baltimore has several young talented prospects ready to take over in the outfield. There might not be a better time to move Santander than right now, and he’s someone I’m sure the Braves have their eye on if the Orioles make him available. He would slot in perfectly in Atlanta as the team’s everyday left fielder.
Bryan Reynolds
I’m not going to spend too much time talking about Reynolds because, by now, we should all know the deal. He’s an All-Star outfielder that several teams, including the Braves, have had their eyes on for years. If the Pirates make him available, Alex Anthopoulos will be circling around Pittsburgh like a shark in the water. Unfortunately, the latest reports suggest the Pirates will once again be hesitant to trade him this offseason because they believe they can compete before his contract is up in three years… which is an early leader in the clubhouse for the most delusional statement of the winter.
Ramon Laureano
As currently constructed, the Athletics are a glorified AAA team. They’ve completely gutted the roster and that will likely continue this offseason. One name to watch is Ramon Laureano. He had a down 2022, but he would be a cost-efficient option for the Braves that provides some pop and quality defense. Laureano is also under team control for three more seasons.
Ian Happ
Happ is a guy I was clamoring for at the trade deadline, and to be frank, I’m shocked the Cubs did not trade him. Maybe that means they will hold onto him again this offseason, but it doesn’t make sense for a rebuilding club. Happ will be a free agent after this season, and there will be no shortage of suitors if the Cubs make him available. Despite him being a rental, he’s my favorite option on this list.
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Photo: Mark Goldman/Icon Sportswire
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