The Atlanta Braves are in the middle of a wildly disappointing season, sitting at 39-50 entering Sunday's games and in fourth place in the NL East.
For one reason or another, the wheels have fallen off on this campaign. The Braves are now forced to consider preparing for the 2026 and 2027 campaigns with the trade deadline just a few weeks away.
There is plenty of blame to go around, though it'd be wise for Atlanta to understand that this is still a roster that can compete for a World Series despite the results thus far.
It might not be in the cards for 2025, yet making certain trades now could prepare the Braves for a 2026 run. Fortunately for the organization, one of the best pitchers in the American League suddenly sounds available in the trade market.
Rival teams believe #Royals SP Seth Lugo will be placed on the trade block if KC is out of the playoff race, per @BNightengale
— MLB Deadline News (@MLBDeadlineNews) July 6, 2025
Lugo, 35, has a $15M player option for 2026 that Nightengale believes will not likely be exercised. pic.twitter.com/7pY8aCcPaT
Braves Should Trade for Royals SP Seth Lugo Before Deadline
35-year-old starting pitcher Seth Lugo, who finished second in the AL Cy Young race with the Kansas City Royals last season, is reportedly a trade candidate in the coming weeks. The Royals fell apart in June and may be looking to sell at the deadline, especially regarding someone with a player option that'll likely be declined this offseason.
Kansas City does not expect to keep Lugo, so this could be a prime opportunity for Atlanta to strike. He has a 6-5 record with a 2.65 ERA and 83 strikeouts to just 30 walks in 95 innings, so this is still a quality starter who would instantly bolster the Braves' starting rotation.
The only issue would be whether or not Atlanta can convince him to sign a contract extension. Lugo will be a highly-coveted starter this winter, and he could fetch a large contract. If the Braves feel confident about keeping him long-term, it's a no-brainer to make an offer and try to bring the veteran in to make a push for a 2026 World Series.
Since the Royals have limited leverage, Atlanta may be able to secure Lugo's services at a discount. Should that be the case, they have to make the call. It's time to prepare for the future, and despite his age, Lugo could be a valuable addition.