As the MLB trade deadline looms on July 30, significant moves have already been made.
The Atlanta Braves, currently dealing with a slew of injuries, have watched their division rivals, the Philadelphia Phillies, bolster their roster by acquiring closer Carlos Estevez from the Los Angeles Angels.
The Braves, in need of depth in both the outfield and starting rotation, have seen All-Star performances from Chris Sale and Reynaldo Lopez. However, the team is without key players, including Spencer Strider, who is out for the season. Despite these challenges, the Braves are unlikely to make a major trade for a starting pitcher.
MLB Network insider Jon Morosi reports that the Braves do not plan to add an “impact starter” before the trade deadline. This decision is influenced by the expectation that Max Fried will return from the injured list soon. Fried, who has been sidelined with left forearm neuritis, was placed on the 15-day injured list after experiencing discomfort during the All-Star Game warm-ups.
Fried’s return is anticipated to stabilize the rotation, making a blockbuster trade unnecessary. This season, Fried has posted a 3.08 ERA, a 1.157 WHIP, 95 strikeouts, and 34 walks over 108.0 innings in 18 starts. His impending return provides a glimmer of hope for the Braves as they navigate their injury woes.
With the clock ticking towards the trade deadline, general manager Alex Anthopoulos faces the challenge of making strategic moves to strengthen the team without compromising its future. Braves fans will be watching closely to see how the roster evolves in the coming days.
