The Atlanta Braves have no shortage of pieces that could be dealt ahead of this year's trade deadline. While the franchise is expected to be buyers, there are still veteran or failing pieces that could use a fresh start. With this in mind, let's look at the pieces that could be dealt in the next weeks of the season.
Players who no longer fit the team's timeline of contention or simply are in need of a fresh starter. It is important to note that prospects aren't included here, as what pieces the Braves are willing to part with in an effort to make a World Series push remains unclear. Leading us to the first name on the list and a player whose contract continues to age in concerning fashion.
1. Sean Murphy
The catcher hasn't hit above the Mendoza line in three years and remains on the injured list yet again. Watching the Braves find surprise production from Joey Bart and continue to lean on Drake Baldwin, the lack of value has become undeniable. Murphy needs to be dumped if the Braves find a team willing to hand the catcher a fresh start. A slump that lasts nearly three years, combined with a lack of ability to stay on the field, leaves the Braves with little choice.
It is fair to wonder if the team is going to be able to find a franchise willing to take on the remainder of Murphy's deal. A contract that is a rare example of a regrettable deal for Atlanta's front office. If given a chance to escape, the Braves cannot hesitate to take it.
2. Ha-Seong Kim
The Braves are going to need to eat the bulk of Kim's salary, as the shortstop is on an expiring deal and on the shelf as well. However, there is no denying the infielder could be viewed as a more interesting reclamation project for a team in need of infield help. The fact that Kim's deal is expiring makes it far more likely that a fit can be found for the shortstop before the deadline.
If the team is forced to keep Kim, it is fair to wonder if the infielder could be passed through waivers or released completely. Jorge Mateo, Mauricio Dubon, and Jim Jarvis have all offered far more upside as starting options.
3. Bryce Elder
If the Braves are going to add to the rotation, it makes sense to attempt to turn the page on Elder, who has struggled in recent weeks. After being one of the league's best pitchers over the first month of the season, the right-hander has slowly reverted to the liability he was previously. If the Braves can find a way to move on, it makes sense if an upgrade is within hand.
Elder simply no longer fits what the Braves are building with a rotation in 2027 that is expected to utilize Hurston Waldrep, Chris Sale, Spencer Schwellenbach, Reynaldo Lopez, and Spencer Strider. There simply is no room for Elder in Atlanta's future, with prospects lurking as well as the clear possibility of adding an established starter ahead of the deadline.
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