The Braves had a quiet, yet very productive trade deadline. They have gotten huge contributions out of players that seemed like no-names, most notably Nicky Lopez and Pierce Johnson. By picking up lower-profile guys, the Braves didn’t sacrifice much in terms of prospect capital. Let’s check in on the guys the Braves sent off in 2023:
LHP Taylor Hearn
Taylor Hearn is an interesting case, because he was actually an acquisition before he became an asset. The Braves picked up Hearn from the Rangers for cash, then flipped him to the Royals for Nicky Lopez after one appearance. Hearn pitched 1/3 of an inning with the Braves, giving up two hits, two walks, and four earned runs. This was a great move to swoop in and flip Hearn for a player with actual value, as the Braves sorely needed a serviceable backup infielder. Since joining Kansas City, Hearn has tossed 2.1 innings, giving up one earned run; a solo home run.
RHP Victor Vodnik
Vodnik is undoubtedly the highest-profile prospect the Braves shipped off at the deadline, but in a thin farm system, he wasn’t a huge loss. So far, Pierce Johnson has been worth the price. He hasn’t allowed an earned run in nine appearances, and the Braves may have found a true diamond in the rough by getting Johnson out of Coors Field. After being traded to the Rockies, Vodnik was assigned to AA Hartford and pitched well. Over six innings, he notched two saves without allowing any runs. Since joining AAA Albuquerque, Vodnik has tossed 2.2 innings, allowing six hits and two earned runs. This trade could be a win-win for both parties, especially if the Braves bring home a title in 2023.
RHP Tanner Gordon
Sent to Colorado along with Vodnik, Gordon wasn’t considered much of a prospect, but he had some decent numbers in the minors. He was in AA as a 26-year-old, but he profiled as a potential future bullpen piece. However, Gordon has had a rough start to his Rockies tenure. He has made three starts and given up 15 earned runs over 15.2 innings in AA Hartford. He’ll have plenty of time to reset going into next season, and although he wasn’t the centerpiece of this deal, I’d like to see him do well with Colorado.
RHP Alec Barger
Barger was also sent to the Rockies, but the Braves got former All Star closer Brad Hand in return. Hand has pitched very well for the Braves, and Barger was another older guy in AA the Braves were willing to part ways with. Barger was pretty solid in AA Mississippi, but he has had a slow start with AA Hartford. Over two innings out of the bullpen, Barger has given up four hits and three earned runs.
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Photographer: Brandon Sloter/Icon Sportswire
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