The Atlanta Braves were busy on the final night of the All-Star break, putting together a surprise trade ahead of Friday's return. Atlanta being involved in a deal doesn't come as a surprise; however, fans might be a bit taken aback that it was the Braves who were buying.
Atlanta didn't trade anyone of note but replaced Jesse Chavez, who hasn't been able to find the magic of seasons past. Texas Rangers starter Dane Dunning is now an Atlanta Brave after being dealt in exchange for Jose Ruiz and cash. The move is all about Atlanta's desperation to find a capable arm to eat innings to help cover for an injury-riddled rotation.
Heading into the second half of the season, it is simpler just to account for the two remaining options who are healthy in Grant Holmes and Spencer Strider. If the Braves can figure out how to fix the once-productive Dunning, the team will have a much-needed additional option to plug into the rotation. For now, the veteran is going to start in a long relief role.
This doesn't come as a surprise with the longest recent outing from the former Texas starter being limited to three innings. Recent struggles had Dunning out of the rotation and into a cleanup role.
Braves Make a Surprise Splash by Adding Dane Dunning
Rangers Trade Dane Dunning To Braves https://t.co/y1bZ2QsLsm pic.twitter.com/Ub7oMVnJKh
— MLB Trade Rumors (@mlbtraderumors) July 18, 2025
If Dunning is able to show promise out of Atlanta's pen, it would be a surprise not to see the team stretch the veteran back out. There was a time when Dunning was an important contributor to the Rangers' rotation. In a lost 2025 season, there is no reason for the Braves not to take a flyer on the starter and hope to be able to turn back the clock.
This could help ease concerns about rushing back injured starters and give the team an additional piece to lean on next season. Dunning offers great flexibility as well, with remaining minor league options that will allow the Braves to continue to shuffle pieces as needed.
It wouldn't be a surprise if this isn't the last addition we see to Atlanta's pitching staff with the current injuries. Adding another cheap starting option to help the Braves limp through the next months of the season makes sense and would be ideal for a bullpen that is already consistently taxed.