Atlanta Braves 2018 Trade Deadline Targets

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ANAHEIM, CA – MAY 01: Manny Machado #13 of the Baltimore Orioles is congratulated after scoring against the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim in the ninth inning on May 1, 2018, in Anaheim, California. (Photo by John McCoy/Getty Images)*** Local Caption *** Manny Machado /

Postseason or Bust with Manny Machado

This rumor has long been rumbling considering the aforementioned struggles for the Braves both at third base and shorstop. Dansby Swanson has quieted some of the worry that he isn’t the shortstop of the future, but Machado would be a huge upgrade.

There is a lot to like about this possible move, with just as many red flags to halt it. Machado is a star player who is only twenty-five and slated for free agency. Any team targeting the star would have to put together a huge rental package.

Giving up a lot for an established star isn’t the problem. The problem would be the established star is likely to leave. For the Braves to pull the trigger on such a trade, they would have to be sure of two things.

One, Machado would make them postseason contenders right now. With how the Braves are playing, that is not a stretch. Secondly, the Braves need to be sure Machado would entertain staying with the team long-term.

If both were to happen, the Braves should go all in on this potential blockbuster. Machado is a 30 homer player, all the while hitting for average and playing great defense.

Manny Machado is one of the stars of the game. A star who would make the Braves not only postseason contenders but World Series bound for 2018.

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