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Atlanta Braves: Five Trade Deadline Targets to Make Atlanta a Contender

By Kit Anderson

ATLANTA, GA - JULY 29: Sean Newcomb #15 of the Atlanta Braves is congratulated by Ender Inciarte #11 as teammates line up to greet Newcomb after throwing a one-hit game through 8 2/3 innings against the Los Angeles Dodgers at SunTrust Park on July 29, 2018 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Scott Cunningham/Getty Images)
ATLANTA, GA - JULY 29: Sean Newcomb #15 of the Atlanta Braves is congratulated by Ender Inciarte #11 as teammates line up to greet Newcomb after throwing a one-hit game through 8 2/3 innings against the Los Angeles Dodgers at SunTrust Park on July 29, 2018 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Scott Cunningham/Getty Images) /
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SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA – JUNE 28: Will Smith #13 of the San Francisco Giants shakes hands with Buster Posey #28 after they won their game against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Oracle Park on June 28, 2019 in San Francisco, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA – JUNE 28: Will Smith #13 of the San Francisco Giants shakes hands with Buster Posey #28 after they won their game against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Oracle Park on June 28, 2019 in San Francisco, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) /

4. If the Braves Want to Go All In There Isn’t a Better Option Than Will Smith

Will Smith would be the ultimate move for the Atlanta Braves to make. Smith would perfectly fit the Braves shortcomings from their bullpen. The dominant reliever is the best option on the market and will be in high demand.

While there has been some speculation that Atlanta could be interested in Giant’s starter Madison Bumgarner focusing on Will Smith makes far more sense for Atlanta.

It seems likely Bumgarner’s best days are behind him. He has struggled at times this season and always seems to be looking for trouble against opposing hitters.  Focusing on more reliable and cheaper starting pitching options would be in Atlanta’s best interest.

If the Braves want to strike a deal with the Giants they should be focused on reliever Will Smith. The lefty has nasty stuff and would fix the Braves pen alone.   The one issue with this deal is the cost.

Much like Mike Minor if the Braves opt to chase Smith they should be prepared to pay top dollar. A doubtful scenario for a team who is always hesitant to pay top dollar for relievers.

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