The Atlanta Braves claimed Ian Anderson off waivers this week, with the starter expected to join the team Monday as their road series against the Colorado Rockies begins. Atlanta has reversed their early-season trade that sent Anderson to the Angels in exchange for reliever Jose Suarez.
The Braves have since parted ways with the long relief option and will reunite with Anderson on Monday. It is a wise move for a team desperate for production both from the bullpen and at the bottom of the rotation. Anderson will be given one last chance to win a contributing role.
With this in mind, it is interesting to consider who could soon make a push to join Atlanta's active roster. Starting with the 2023 MVP, and a player who is already making headlines in the 2025 season for all the wrong reasons.
Ronald Acuna Jr.
This team is in desperate need of the production and energy that Acuna will bring to the everyday lineup. With Acuna's return expected to happen in May, we are closing in on the outfielder's return. It will be interesting to see if things go smoothly after Acuna took a shot at manager Brian Snitker and Atlanta's coaching staff.
While Acuna made a fair point, it was an ill-timed decision that was also a dig at struggling outfielder Jarred Kelenic. Still, Atlanta remains desperate for the outfielder's stabilizing offensive production.
Craig Kimbrel
With the current state of Atlanta's bullpen, it is impossible to believe Kimbrel can't contribute. The closer's failures last season were all confined to the end of the season.
The first half of the year, Kimbrel was a consistently productive force in the bullpen. There is a clear need in the back of Atlanta's bullpen, with even the team's closer giving reason for concern.
It would be shocking not to see Kimbrel very quickly joining the major league team.
AJ Smith-Shawver
Just when it seemed Smith-Shawver was starting to turn a corner, the Braves opted to send the starter down. With injuries continuing to pile up, it would be a surprise not to see Smith-Shawver back in the rotation at some point.
Bryce Elder is a huge question mark despite coming off his best start in the last two seasons. The promise and talent of Smith-Shawver are simply too great to continue to keep the starter at the lower levels.
Bryan De La Cruz
The outfielder's underwhelming start was enough for the Falcons to demote the veteran despite other inferior options. It wouldn't be surprising to see the team revisit De La Cruz if they are tired of Jarred Kelenic's struggles, or Eli White's hot start doesn't hold. There is likely a path for the veteran to earn a second chance.