Looking at the Atlanta Braves' current roster, it would be shocking not to see the team make a handful of notable additions. The team is still easing Ronald Acuña Jr. along, clearly taking every possible precaution. This being the star's second serious knee injury, their protective approach can be appreciated. As important as this approach might be, it doesn't help a team that is still trying to fight its way back to .500.
With this in mind, Atlanta is going to have to make a number of extremely tough choices as the trade deadline grows closer. While the team is still months away from the deadline, it would be surprising not to see moves made in the next weeks of the season. Leading to the obvious speculation of which Braves could be on their way out.
1. Bryce Elder
It feels harsh to include the starter who has played the best ball of the last two years of his career. This included an impressive start against the Dodgers that allowed Atlanta to salvage the final game of the series. Elder has now stacked three solid starts in a row and has the most trade value he has had since working his way to a surprise All-Star selection in his debut season.
Still, the Braves are going to have to make room for Spencer Strider and must move someone out of the rotation. With how impressive AJ Smith-Shawver was in his last outing, that is either going to be Elder or Grant Holmes. There is a clear argument to be made with the large sample size of Elder struggling now is the time to attempt to move the starter in an attempt to add something of value.
An obvious counter to this is pointing out Atlanta's lack of depth in the rotation. Giving up on Elder just when the pitcher appears to be figuring things out is a risk. A bigger risk might be sticking with a pitcher who has struggled for two straight seasons and hasn't shown himself capable of pitching at this level for a full season. If there is any value to be found, now is the time to trade Elder.