The Atlanta Braves have no shortage of regrettable contracts this season, despite how well things have been going. Austin Riley might be at the top of this list for many fans, but he isn't a realistic trade option based on the build of the team and the importance of Riley moving forward.
With this in mind, let's look at a trio of pieces the team could realistically dump ahead of this year's deadline. Players who simply aren't providing value should be moved if the franchise is given an opportunity.
1. Sean Murphy -$15 million
It is going to be very difficult at this point to find a team willing to take on a catcher that hasn't hit above the Mendoza line since the 2023 season, and perhaps more importantly, cannot stay healthy. Murphy is hurt yet again, and it serves as a reminder of the lack of durability over the last three seasons. If the Braves can find a team willing to take on Murphy as a reclamation project, the franchise should make the move without hesitation.
For Murphy, you're already being replaced by Drake Baldwin and going to be forced to fight for playing time on a crowded roster. It makes sense to search for a change of scenery and be willing to accept any deal that could serve as a potential reset and help you turn back the clock.
2. Ha-Seong Kim- $20 million
Re-signing Kim appeared to be an obvious decision for a franchise that traded away Nick Allen and was years removed from having stability at the position. What this failed to factor in was a breakout season for Mauricio Dubon and Jorge Mateo, being the absolute best version of himself. This turned up the pressure on Kim, who has been a complete mess offensively and doesn't look anything close to the player Atlanta was expecting to steady the position.
If a team wants to take a flyer on Kim and help reset a struggling career, it makes sense for the Braves to free up a roster spot. As long as things continue as they have in the past weeks, Mateo and Dubon are more than capable of holding the position down, something that remains a surprise for a duo that little was expected from.
3. Reynaldo Lopez - $14 million
What exactly happened to Lopez remains a mystery, with the pitcher's numbers imploding dating back to a notable brawl with Jorge Soler. Since that moment, the starter struggled to produce anything close to capable innings and was relegated to the bullpen, where he continues to struggle. In Lopez's last outing, the right-hander gave up four earned runs and wasn't missing many bats.
It is clear that a stint in Atlanta's bullpen isn't solving whatever woes are facing the veteran. It makes sense for both sides to part ways and hope a new landing spot solves a growing problem. One that makes Atlanta fans thankful for the incredible pitching depth the roster has enjoyed so far in the 2026 season.
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