Braves Eye Relief Options in Active Trade Market
Atlanta Braves president of baseball operations Alex Anthopoulos is making significant moves as the offseason unfolds. Recently, the team secured closer Raisel Iglesias on a one-year deal valued at $16 million. This strategic signing aims to enhance a bullpen that saw the departure of right-handed pitchers Tyler Kinley and Pierce Johnson, whose club options were not picked up.
Braves Trade for Utilityman Mauricio Dubon
In addition to Iglesias, the Braves completed a trade with the Houston Astros to acquire utility player Mauricio Dubon. This trade provides Atlanta with a reliable option at shortstop in case they cannot find an upgrade. Furthermore, if Dubon does not secure a starting position, he offers valuable depth as a bench player.
Shortstop Market Exploration
The Braves remain active in exploring the shortstop market. They aim to bolster their roster further by seeking additional rotation support and potentially another reliever to enhance their pitching staff.
Trade Market Activity
Significantly, the trade market is starting to heat up. The deal for Dubon marks the second notable trade in just days, following the unexpected exchange of Taylor Ward for Grayson Rodriguez between the Los Angeles Angels and the Baltimore Orioles. Both Ward and Rodriguez were not considered potential non-tender candidates, while Dubon and Nick Allen—who was traded in exchange for Dubon—were previously seen as possible non-tender options.
Non-Tender Candidates
As the non-tender deadline looms, general managers across the league are keen to finalize trades for players they intend to release. Some notable candidates include:
- Jonah Heim
- Adolis Garcia
- Jonathan India
- Alec Bohm
- Jesus Sanchez
- Bailey Falter
Iglesias and the Relief Market
The re-signing of Iglesias to the Braves is a key move in a relief market that may experience rapid changes this offseason. Atlanta values continuity, which is reflected in their commitment to Iglesias. Despite the familiarity, the market dynamics suggest that relief pitchers could be signed at a faster pace compared to other free agents.
Notable Relief Pitchers
In addition to Iglesias, prominent names like Edwin Diaz, Robert Suarez, Ryan Helsley, and Devin Williams are expected to attract significant contracts. Other pitchers such as Brad Keller, Pete Fairbanks, and Luke Weaver may not have the same star status, but they could still provide solid reinforcement to any bullpen.
As the offseason progresses, the Braves are diligently assessing their options, eager to make further enhancements while navigating the evolving trade and free-agent landscape.
