Braves Could Surprise MLB with Unexpected Trade Deadline Approach Amid Tough Season
The Atlanta Braves are currently experiencing a difficult season, sitting at a disappointing 29-38 record. This places them fourth in the National League East, trailing the division leader by 15 games and falling nine games short of a Wild Card spot.
Given these numbers, many would expect the Braves to act as sellers at the upcoming trade deadline, potentially offloading key players like Marcell Ozuna in return for future assets. However, according to Bleacher Report’s Tim Kelly, the Braves might take a completely different route. Kelly predicts Atlanta will hold on to its core players and aim to rebound in the second half of the season rather than enter a rebuilding phase.
“There’s simply too much talent on this roster for the season not to turn around,” Kelly stated. One of the biggest reasons for optimism is the return of Ronald Acuña Jr., who didn’t start his season until May 23. In addition, ace pitcher Spencer Strider is still finding his form following a second significant elbow surgery. Meanwhile, standout position players like Austin Riley, Ozzie Albies, and Michael Harris II have all struggled to meet expectations, posting OPS numbers of .775, .653, and .610, respectively.
Jurickson Profar, who failed a PED test and is therefore ineligible for postseason play, will return during the second half of the regular season. While he can’t help in October, his presence could be meaningful down the stretch. With several underperforming stars and injuries finally healing, there is legitimate hope for a turnaround.
Despite their struggles, the Braves have a glaring need at shortstop and a bullpen that desperately requires an overhaul. Addressing these weaknesses without tearing down the roster is a tricky task for Alex Anthopoulos, Atlanta’s president of baseball operations. But given his past track record and success, many believe he’s capable of navigating these challenges.
Still, even if the Braves don’t sell off major talent, it’s not easy to justify going all-in as buyers either. Committing key assets to land players on expiring contracts may not be wise under the circumstances. Instead, the team might explore more subtle improvements, such as targeting undervalued or lesser-known players who can provide a boost at a lower cost.
There’s historical precedent for this kind of midseason resurgence. In 2021, the Braves found themselves under the .500 mark after 67 games yet went on to win the World Series. That season, the team made several smart additions—Jorge Soler, Eddie Rosario, Richard Rodríguez, and Adam Duvall—before finishing strong. By the time the trade deadline arrived that year, the Braves had improved to 52-54, showing enough life to justify their aggressive moves.
Kelly repeatedly emphasizes that this team has the talent to bounce back. Acuña is already showing MVP-caliber form, even with the late start. Meanwhile, Matt Olson, Riley, Albies, and Harris all need to perform at their expected levels to ignite a serious playoff push.
In summary, despite their rough first half, the Braves may resist the urge to become sellers. Instead, they could opt to make strategic, low-risk additions, banking on the resurgence of their star players and the return of key contributors. If things begin to click, Atlanta could surprise the league once again, just as they did in their 2021 championship run.
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