The Atlanta Braves' offensive outburst on Wednesday night served as a reminder of what this team is supposed to be. While it was exciting to see the team score at this level, it was a frustrating reminder as well as to what should've been.
Regardless, the Braves find themselves in a position to sell at the upcoming deadline and must be open to parting ways with any pieces that aren't key to the team's future. This includes the recently suspended Jurickson Profar, who is off to a solid start since returning to the lineup.
If there is a way for the Braves to offload his contract and start over this offseason, it could be a wise decision. There are questions about what Profar will be moving forward after being suspended for breaking the league's banned substance policy.
No matter what Profar's intent was, this raises obvious questions that cause a healthy level of regret for the contract the team handed the veteran outfielder.
Braves Should Explore Trading Jurickson Profar
Atlanta's record demands the team explore every trade avenue that doesn't involve parting ways with franchise cornerstones. A group playing this badly isn't a piece or two away from contention but needs meaningful changes and an offseason to get fully healthy. With this in mind, it makes sense to explore the market for the outfielder and see if the Braves can escape the deal and get anything in return.
Already, you have questions about Michael Harris moving forward, and have little depth at the position. If you're going to give up on the season, as the Braves should, it makes sense to see if any team is willing to take a chance on Profar's deal. The veteran has hit well since returning from suspension, perhaps helping create a healthy trade market.
While the team does need answers in the outfield moving forward, the suspension and questions around the veteran are too obvious to overlook. If there is a chance of an easy escape, it must be a conversation for an Atlanta front office that cannot continue to ignore where this season is heading.