The Atlanta Braves are sitting on top of Major League Baseball with 44 wins after taking another series from the Pittsburgh Pirates on Saturday. They’ve been baseball’s best team, but they’re not done shopping.
Atlanta’s just a starter or two away from having the best rotation in baseball. They’re also hunting for an impact bat in the outfield. Braves general manager Alex Anthopoulos has hinted at being aggressive at the trade deadline.
“I fully expect and hope that we will be engaged in trades come July. I’m not trying to overly excite anybody or promise anything. But if we’re playing the way we are right now, we’re going to be in there.”
For Atlanta, it’s simply a matter of what’ll be available and what Anthopoulos is willing to give up.
Bleacher Report’s Tim Kelly believes the Braves should pursue hometown star Byron Buxton of the Minnesota Twins.
“Even scarier would be if president of baseball operations Alex Anthopoulos finds a way to add an impact bat in left field. Would Buxton being willing to waive his no-trade clause—and potentially move to left field—if it meant chasing a World Series with his hometown team.”
It may ultimately come down to whether Buxton’s willing to waive his no-trade clause. But he’s reportedly had some issues with the Twins’ front office, and that frustration with the organization could be what convinces him to approve a deal.
Buxton’s Growing Frustration
The situation in Minnesota isn’t exactly stable right now.
“It’s been months of upheavals for the Minnesota Twins and, because of roster changes, turnover in the dugout and front office, and an uncertain commitment level from ownership, the future is uncertain. That uncertainty hasn’t sat well with franchise cornerstone Byron Buxton, especially insofar as his future with the Twins is concerned.”
CBS Sports’ Dayn Perry laid out just how unsettled things have become for the Twins’ star center fielder.
Buxton would likely become the Braves’ primary left fielder and would solidify their outfield. Such a move would also likely allow Mauricio Dubón to return to shortstop on a more regular basis.
An All-Star, Silver Slugger, and Gold Glove winner, Buxton would give the Braves another dangerous addition to an already loaded lineup. His contract runs right in line with Ronald Acuña Jr.’s deal, which makes the financials work.
The way I see it, this comes down to whether Buxton decides he’s ready for a change of scenery. With the Braves playing this well and his hometown connection, it’s not hard to imagine him being intrigued by the possibility.
