The Atlanta Braves are heading into the All-Star break wondering what exactly lies ahead for the franchise. It is hard to predict which direction the front office will choose to go. While it is obvious the 2025 season is already over, the decision-makers have spent the bulk of the season telling fans that the franchise wouldn't sell. It is clear that this shouldn't be the case based on the team's current standings and how they continue to fall to inferior rosters. However, nothing can be ruled out when it comes to how this team's top brass is going to operate moving forward.
Still, there is a great chance that closer Raisel Iglesias might have thrown his last pitch as Atlanta's closer. With how well the veteran has thrown the last two weeks, if the Braves are going to sell now is the time. Iglesias doesn't make sense to keep for a team that isn't going to be in the postseason race. The veteran's contract expires at the end of the season, and the current results hardly inspire extension talks. After spending the first half throwing away games, the closer is just now starting to figure things out.
The Braves Should Trade Raisel Iglesias
Atlanta opting to trade Iglesias now is all about taking advantage of the recent hot streak and getting whatever value is left. While you aren't going to garner a top prospect, there is a chance of adding a piece that helps the team's 2026 depth. This season might be lost, but there is no reason to embrace a full rebuild. The Braves should remain focused on attempting a reset, only trading pieces that aren't going to help the team win next year.
Iglesias falls under this description when you consider both the lack of early-season production and the contract situation. All of this adds up to Atlanta needing to have a sense of urgency over the next few days to attempt to find a trade partner. Sitting double-digit games below .500 should be the final straw that this season isn't going to happen, and it's time to sell.
Looking at current options, Iglesias needs to be at the top of this list, especially with the veteran's recent improvements. While it is never a pleasant reality to face, this is where Atlanta finds itself after continuing to find ways to lose amid numerous injuries and underachieving veterans. Trading Iglesias is unquestionably the right decision.