Trade & Injury Update: Braves GM Upgrade Top Talented Start Trade, After HUGE Injury Of…..

The Atlanta Braves are considering some key trades as the MLB trade deadline approaches, with a focus on bolstering their outfield and shortstop positions.

Upgrading the outfield seems more feasible, while enhancing the shortstop position may present more challenges.

Braves General Manager Alex Anthopoulos, known for his strategic mid-season acquisitions, is eyeing potential impactful deals to enhance the team’s performance.

Reflecting on the 2021 trade deadline, Anthopoulos’ savvy trades played a significant role in the Braves’ World Series victory.

Notable acquisitions like Eddie Rosario, Joc Pederson, Jorge Soler, and Adam Duvall, although not high-profile, significantly contributed to the team’s success. This year, Anthopoulos seems to be considering a more high-stakes move.

According to Jim Bowden of The Athletic, the Braves, along with the Phillies and Mariners, have shown interest in Cody Bellinger.

Despite Bellinger being placed on the 10-day injured list after a hand injury, his situation is reminiscent of Rosario’s in 2021, which did not deter Anthopoulos from making a trade.

Thus, Bellinger’s injury might not significantly impact the Braves’ interest.

The Chicago Cubs, Bellinger’s current team, are yet to decide if they will be sellers at the trade deadline.

Their performance post-All-Star break will likely influence this decision. Bellinger’s contract situation adds another layer of complexity.

At the end of the season, Bellinger can opt out of his contract, taking a $2.5 million buyout or choosing to stay for $27.5 million in 2025, with an additional $25 million option and a $5 million buyout in 2026.

This flexibility in Bellinger’s contract could potentially make him a valuable asset for the Braves, particularly with uncertainties surrounding Ronald Acuna Jr.’s ability to play in the outfield next season.

Although the Braves typically prefer more certainty in their roster moves, Anthopoulos has a reputation for crafting deals with protective stipulations, which could make a Bellinger trade feasible.

Overall, the Braves’ pursuit of Cody Bellinger represents a strategic effort to enhance their roster with an eye on both immediate and future benefits.

The outcome of this potential trade will depend on several factors, including Bellinger’s recovery and the Cubs’ decision-making as the deadline nears.