It’s never too early to speculate about MLB, which players might be top trade candidates, and which teams (contenders) may be aggressive in their trade searches. Following a strong start to the season, the Atlanta Braves are now contemplating a World Series trip.
Could the Braves pursue Robbie Ray, the San Francisco Giants’ future free agent starter? Ray’s name was associated with the Braves in a recent story by SportsIllustrated. com’s Jackson Roberts. Robbie Ray is in the final year of a five-year, $115 million contract, and with the Giants’ difficulties, he may be a top trade target this summer.
Heavy MLB: The Atlanta Braves should pursue the recently released Twins seven-year MLB pitcher.
Should the Braves trade for Robbie Ray?
The Atlanta Braves already have a fairly loaded roster, but why now gamble everything when they have a strong opportunity to make an impact in the MLB playoffs?
Jackson Roberts identifies a likely trade target for all NL contender, and for the Braves, it is southpaw starter Robbie Ray:
“The Braves reached the point where they had the best record in Major League Baseball because they were strong in all areas of the game. “The corner outfield is the only position in the lineup that stands to benefit significantly from an upgrade, but instead, it appears like they should be looking for a rental starting pitcher. “
“Top target: SFG LHP Robbie Ray“
Robbie Ray won the AL Cy Young Award in 2021 with the Toronto Blue Jays, and he has been one of MLB’s most consistent starters ever since. Ray has made 30 or more starts in three of the five full seasons since his 2021 season (including 2021), and he has already made ten starts for the Giants this season.
Even if Ray is a member of a struggling Giants club, you must assume he will give it his all this season, since he is scheduled to enter free agency after it ends.
The Atlanta Braves’ starting rotation has been among the finest in MLB, so Robbie Ray may not even have a spot in it, but one area where Atlanta may use help is with another southpaw starter.
The Braves lack a southpaw starter (other than Martin Perez, who makes spot starts) in Spencer Strider, Grant Holmes, Bryce Elder, and other fill-in pitchers.
In terms of what the Braves might have to give up to complete a trade, San Francisco is most likely seeking prospects to help accelerate their rebuild, or a proven MLB arm such as Hurston Waldrep.
The Braves still have AJ Smith-Shawver, Waldrep, and Spencer Schwellenbach on hold, ready to make an impact this season.
