There has been a lot of speculation that the Atlanta Braves could be forced to sell at the upcoming MLB trade deadline. It is a fair question for a team that has been double-digit games under .500 and remains far behind division rivals in the National League East race. If things were to continue to roll downhill, trading Marcell Ozuna, Raisel Iglesias, and Jurickson Profar all makes sense.
However, this doesn't mean the Braves should consider trading anyone expected to help the team win in the 2026 season. Atlanta has built a veteran roster expected to contend for the postseason. Parting ways with anyone who is a cornerstone beyond 2025 simply isn't logical.
Braves GM Alex Anthopoulos obviously concurs, weighing in on the speculation when it comes to starter Chris Sale. The GM kept it simple when discussing the possibility, simply offering that a potential trade "will not happen" when he spoke with Nick Cellini and Chris Dimino of 680 The Fan.
It was a timely statement with Sale going out later that night and shutting down the division-leading New York Mets. The lefty was dominating, coming one out short of working a complete game shutout. Raisel Iglesias would step in to get the game's final out and give the Braves a 5-0 win over the Mets.
Braves GM Made it Clear That Chris Sale Won't Be Traded
Opting to keep Sale makes complete sense, no matter how the rest of the season plays out. To keep hope alive, you need the veteran on the mound every fifth day to have a real chance at turning things around. The flip side of this is the fact that Sale is still under contract for the 2026 season. Even if things collapse and you're forced to punt on this season, there isn't any reason to part ways with an ace who can help you win next year.
Already, the team has reason to regret parting ways with Max Fried in the 2025 offseason. They aren't going to make matters worse by considering trading the team's best starter. While Spencer Strider was expected to earn his honor, Sale's surprise dominance, along with the dip in velocity, has changed rankings.
Regardless, Atlanta's GM making it so clear that Sale isn't going to be traded was the right move. It helps steady the clubhouse and sends a message of belief in the season, no matter whether or not this is founded. Sale will be with the Braves for the 2026 season, and considering how respected the pitcher has become, this is welcome news.