Atlanta Braves: Five Second Half Predictions

Cameron Maybin Will Be Traded

Jul 4, 2015; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Braves center fielder Cameron Maybin (25) waves to the crowd after hitting a home run against the Philadelphia Phillies in the second inning at Turner Field. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports

John Hart has not been shy about shipping away star players and fan favorites to other teams needing a boost to get young talent. The curious case of Cameron Maybin is no different. After surpassing expectations so far this season as the Atlanta Braves’ starting center-fielder, Cameron Maybin has transcended his initial status as a throwaway player in the trade that sent Craig Kimbrel to the San Diego Padres.

More from ATL All Day

• Atlanta Braves: Felix Has Already Shown Enough to Win a Rotation Spot
• Atlanta Braves Implode Late To Phillies, Cole Hamels Remains Sidelined
• Kyle Wright Shines As Folty Struggles In Atlanta Braves Loss To Red Sox
• Atlanta Hawks Sweep Back-to-Back Games Over Weekend
• Atlanta Braves: Grapefruit League Play Check Up

Currently .289 with 44 runs batted in and 8 home-runs. Maybin has exceeded his career averages this season, and has demonstrated his ability as a key offensive contributor in a lineup. With some contenders in both leagues looking for a bat in the outfield, John Hart will sell high on the Braves’ center-fielder’s breakout season to haul in a bevy of more young prospects.

Cameron Maybin has become a fan favorite and arguably the Atlanta Braves’ best player during Freddie Freeman’s absence — but his excellent stat line in 2015 will enable the Braves’ front-office to move him easily. It will be sad to see him leave, but as Braves fans we must think long-term, especially with prospects such as Jose Peraza and Mallex Smith progressing quickly in the minors. 

Next: Moving Someone from our Bullpen?