The Braves, under the leadership of Alex Anthopoulos, are actively exploring options to strengthen their pitching staff in the current offseason. Reports suggest that they made an offer to Aaron Nola, who ultimately stayed with the Phillies. Subsequently, Atlanta was linked to Sonny Gray, but he chose to sign with the St. Louis Cardinals. With these options off the table, the Braves are now turning their attention to the trade market.
Several potential trade targets, including Shane Bieber, Corbin Burnes, and Dylan Cease, have been mentioned, but the focus seems to be on Cease. The Braves, along with the Dodgers and other teams, are reportedly engaged in trade discussions with the Chicago White Sox regarding the talented pitcher.
Dylan Cease is viewed as a Cy Young-caliber pitcher with multiple years of control, making him an attractive prospect for the Braves. If acquired, he would join a starting rotation featuring elite arms in Spencer Strider and Max Fried, along with seasoned pitcher Charlie Morton. This potential rotation, combined with a formidable bullpen and a powerful lineup, could make the Braves a force to be reckoned with in baseball.
Despite the appeal of such a scenario, there are concerns about the cost of acquiring Cease. The Braves have been actively creating roster space and managing payroll to facilitate a significant move, initially thought to be the signing of Nola or the addition of Gray. Now, the focus has shifted to Cease, who, being from Georgia, could have additional appeal to the team.
MLB insider Kiley McDaniel of ESPN is reportedly in favor of the Braves pursuing a trade for Cease. However, the deal might be challenging, as it could potentially require parting ways with some of the top prospects. The Braves’ farm system has enough depth to entice the White Sox, and Anthopoulos faces the decision of whether to make a bold move for Cease, considering the potential impact on the team’s future.
While some doubt the Braves’ ability to make such a deal, there is confidence that they possess the pieces necessary to interest the White Sox. The combination of prospects such as A.J. Smith-Shawver, Hurston Waldrep, Vaughn Grissom, and others could form a compelling offer for Chicago. However, the decision ultimately rests with Anthopoulos, who must weigh the potential benefits against the cost of parting with promising young talent.
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