Atlanta Braves: Ranking John Hart’s Trades in 2015

Sep 16, 2015; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Braves starting pitcher

(17) delivers a pitch to a Toronto Blue Jays batter in the first inning of their game against the Atlanta Braves at Turner Field. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports

4. November 17, 2014 – Jason Heyward and Jordan Walden (Braves) for Shelby Miller and Tyrell Jenkins (Cardinals)

The first major deal in the post Frank Wren era, John Hart sent fan favorite and hometown hero Jason Heyward to the St. Louis Cardinals for the 24-year-old Shelby Miller and pitching prospect Tyrell Jenkins. This trade was the first indication that the Atlanta Braves were trying to replenish the farm system, and renew their focus on pitching.

Though the initial reaction of many fans was to bemoan the departure of Jason Heyward, this trade ended up being a coup for the Atlanta Braves. John Hart traded away one season of control and the free agency uncertainty of Jason Heyward for 4 years of control of Shelby Miller.

Shelby Miller had an excellent, though disappointing season, establishing himself as one of the top pitchers in the National League for most of the season. He finished the year as the most consistent Atlanta Braves starter, finishing the season with a 3.02 ERA in 205 innings pitched. Miller’s season will always be remembered for a streak of 24 consecutive starts in which he did not win; but ended the season against his former team with a victory.

Jason Heyward had one of the best season’s of his career with the NL Central Champion Cardinals, owning a slash-line of .293/.359/.439 with 13 homers and 60 RBI’s. Though Heyward’s numbers are good, he will still enter the offseason as a free agent and will demand a hefty contract. I would trade that for 3 more years of Miller and the potential of Tyrell Jenkins.

5. December 19, 2015 – Justin Upton and Aaron Northcraft (Braves) for Max Fried, Jace Peterson, Mallex Smith and Dustin Peterson (Padres)

Similar to the trade that sent Jason Heyward to St. Louis, the Atlanta Braves parted ways with arguably their best offensive player in Justin Upton who had only one year left on his contract. In return, the Atlanta Braves netted top pitching prospect Max Fried, major league ready Jace Peterson, along with top positional prospects Mallex Smith and Dustin Peterson.

Upton’s offensive production was sorely missed this season, but Jace Peterson asserted himself as the Atlanta Braves’ second baseman of the future, while Mallex Smith went on to when the Atlanta Braves Minor League player of the year award. This trade epitomized John Hart’s vision for the organization going forward, and could pay dividends in the future.

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