The Atlanta Braves have no shortage of areas they could improve ahead of the 2026 trade deadline. Whether looking at the rotation, middle infield, bench depth, or long relief options, there are arguments to add to nearly every position. Still, there is no denying Atlanta is in good positioning as they continue to control the National League East.
It wouldn't be shocking to see the team consider possible improvements from within their own division. The New York Mets are getting ready to sell pieces off after a dismal season, and the Washington Nationals and Miami Marlins are both likely to consider additional moves, leading us to look at a handful of rivals the Braves should inquire about in the coming days.
1. Bo Bichette
The Mets are a complete dumpster fire and appear likely to consider trading every veteran star not named Juan Soto. This opens the door for the Braves to find an answer at shortstop, putting Bichette back in the middle of the infield. Bichette has driven in more than 50 runners and hit above .250, giving the Braves a much-needed stabilizing presence towards the bottom of the lineup.
Atlanta's only concern is whether or not the hefty contract Bichette signed in free agency is worth taking on as the infielder ages. It is a three-year deal worth $126 million with two highly-paid deals remaining. Still, it is at least worth exploring and would give the team stability and a needed offensive boost.
2. A.J. Minter
Minter is on an extremely affordable deal and would be a great boost to the bullpen of Walt Weiss. If you're going to make a deep October run, it will require Dylan Lee, Robert Suarez, and Raisel Iglesias all being at the top of their respective games. Having Minter thrown into the mix allows you to keep this trio fresh and utilize the former Brave and current Met as a high-leverage option alongside Tyler Kinley and Didier Fuentes.
This is an elite mix of talent that gives you a chance to make a surprise run and repeat the magic of the 2021 season. Atlanta is never against reuniting with former players, and Minter, at the very least, should have their attention.
3. C.J. Abrams
Abrams is another option the Braves could explore to find stability at the shortstop position they have lacked since the departure of Dansby Swanson. Having Abrams in the fold takes away the concern you have when considering that Ha-Seong Kim, Jorge Mateo, and Mauricio Dubon are all scheduled to hit free agency at the end of the 2026 season.
The only concern here is that Abrams is in the middle of his best season, and you're buying high while paying a division rival meaningful prospects. This could be enough to caution the Braves against the move, no matter the obvious fit.
4. Sandy Alcantara
Is this finally the year that the Marlins trade away the starter? Alcantara has been a consistent source of trade rumors over the past two seasons without a move being made. Still, Atlanta's need in the rotation demands they at least check in on the right-hander and consider what the potential fit could be moving forward and whether or not it moves their postseason ceiling.
Much of this will be decided by how Spencer Strider and Spencer Schwellenbach are progressing, as well as the current results of the rotation. If the Braves feel they need to make a move, Alcantara will unquestionably be considered.
Add us as a preferred source on Google