My Last Pre-Deadline Outline
Who I think is possible, probable, & my dream acquisition for each area of need.
With the Trade Deadline quickly approaching (Tuesday, August 2nd), I’m throwing my hat in the ring. Alex Anthopoulos has made a living out of improving his ball clubs with additions that no one saw coming. Often times, an official press release from the Braves Public Relations Team is the first time anyone knows anything about the interest in a particular player.
But alas, I’m attempting the impossible by merely identifying a hole & then listing the possible remedies for each.
And knowing Anthopoulos, there’s a very real possibility that I don’t get a single one of these predictions correct.
But without further ado…
Second Base
Ozzie’s prolonged absence doesn’t have a concrete end. Anytime there’s an uncertainty concerning the availability of such an important piece of the lineup & clubhouse for a contending baseball team; a move needs to be made.
Even if the second baseman Anthopoulos adds is only occupying the position until Ozzie’s return, depth is always in high demand. The 2nd baseman-to-be will surely become a bench bat, utility man, or even the designated hitter in certain matchups.
Who’s Possible: Whit Merrifield (Royals), Kiké Hernández (Red Sox), Jazz Chisholm Jr. (Marlins), Brandon Drury (Reds), Michael Chavis (Pirates), Tommy La Stella (Giants).
My Dream: Jazz Chisholm Jr.
My Prediction: Michael Chavis.
Left Field
The preferred scenario here is that Eddie Rosario approaches 2021 NLCS Super Rosario. That’s preferred. But Eddie missed time earlier in the season for eye surgery to repair an actual hole in his eye. A HOLE IN HIS EYE. Where we’re at today in the season is akin to Spring Training/early season for Eddie while every pitcher he faces is in midseason form.
He’s at a slight disadvantage, to say the least. If nothing else, a right-handed platoon mate would benefit him greatly. Because Marcell Ozuna is about as useless as the lifeguards at an Olympic Swim Meet.
The good thing about some of the left field options is that they’re also second base options. Not saying that makes them more likely, but it makes them more appealing. I also think Alex will target a left fielder that has big league experience as a center fielder. Because if Michael Harris goes down, we are full steam ahead up the wrong creek…
Who’s Possible: Brandon Drury (Reds), Ian Happ (Cubs), Austin Hays (Orioles), Joc Pederson (Giants), Chad Pinder (Athletics), Jake McCarthy (Diamondbacks).
My Dream: Jake McCarthy.
My Prediction: Austin Hays.
Starting Pitcher
This is the hardest to predict. None of these have been easy though because Anthopoulos works in total silence. But this one is perhaps the most important.
The starter Anthopoulos adds will not only play a big role in getting to October, but will preferably be starter No. 4 or better in the postseason rotation.
Luis Castillo has already been dealt, even though the Braves were never likely a serious contender for him just due to the sheer number of teams with better farm systems that were also in on him.
But, it’s hard to imagine Anthopoulos leaving the rotation as is, moving forward.
Who’s Possible: Carlos Rodón (Giants), Tyler Mahle (Reds), Noah Syndergaard (Angels), Nathan Eovaldi (Red Sox), Pablo López (Marlins), Zach Plesac (Guardians), Jose Quintana (Pirates), Zack Greinke (Royals), Michael Pineda (Tigers), Chad Kuhl (Rockies), Corey Kluber (Rays), Shane Bieber (Guardians), Dylan Cease (White Sox).
My Dream: Carlos Rodón, Nathan Eovaldi, Shane Bieber, Corey Kluber, or Dylan Cease.
My Prediction: Shane Bieber.