How the Atlanta Braves are going to approach the 2025 MLB Trade Deadline is up for debate. While the front office has been very vocal about refusing to sell, the recent struggles could change the team's approach. It would be a wise decision to at least trade away expiring contracts and pieces you don't want to build around in future seasons. A mix of both buying and selling could be Atlanta's approach as the team doesn't look to rebuild but reset for the 2026 season. With this in mind, there is one veteran pitcher who could be a surprise fit for Atlanta's roster.
Arizona Diamondbacks starter Zach Gallen is in the middle of the worst season of his career at the worst possible time. Just when it seemed the veteran was in line for a huge extension, the wheels fell off. Considering Gallen's age and consistent history, this shouldn't scare the right teams from attempting a trade and extension of the veteran starter. For Atlanta, it is the perfect option not only to eat innings the rest of the year, but to solidify the rotation for the 2026 season. Gallen makes sense for Atlanta on a number of levels.
Zach Gallen Emerges as Perfect Braves Trade Target
It is a long shot that the Braves opt to add anyone of note at this year's deadline with the team's current standings. However, Gallen would be an interesting exception if Atlanta is in a position that sets the pitcher up to receive an extension in Atlanta and help fill the void of last year's lost starters. Both Max Fried and Charlie Morton leaving in the same offseason helped expose just how dire the situation has become for the Braves.
Losing Reynaldo Lopez and Chris Sale was enough to push the rotation into complete chaos. It forced Atlanta to turn to a rookie who clearly isn't ready and to continue to rely on Bryce Elder. Neither situation is ideal when you consider the results from both starters. Gallen could fix one of these issues right now while also giving you an answer beyond this season. While it remains an unlikely path, it is one the Braves should at least explore in the next weeks of the season.