The Atlanta Braves are reportedly considering a significant trade involving Ozzie Albies, their three-time All-Star second baseman, ahead of the 2025 MLB trade deadline. Albies, who is under a team-friendly contract with a $7 million salary for 2025 and club options for 2026 and 2027, has been a key contributor since 2018. However, his declining arm strength has affected his defensive performance, leading some insiders to suggest that moving him could be beneficial if it facilitates acquiring a high-impact player.
One potential target for the Braves is Chicago Cubs outfielder Cody Bellinger, who signed a three-year, $80 million deal this offseason. Before an injury sidelined him, Bellinger was performing well, with a .269 batting average, nine home runs, and 37 RBIs. Despite his current injury, Bellinger could provide the Braves with a younger, controllable outfield option, especially considering Marcell Ozuna’s uncertain future with the team.
Another outfield option linked to the Braves is Luis Robert Jr. of the Chicago White Sox. Robert, currently under a six-year, $50 million contract, has shown flashes of his potential, including a 2023 season with 38 home runs and 20 stolen bases. While his strikeout rate is a concern, the Braves could offer a substantial package of prospects to acquire him, potentially pairing him with Ronald Acuña Jr. in the outfield for the 2025 season.
In the pitching department, the Braves are exploring options to bolster their rotation. One possibility is Los Angeles Angels’ left-hander Tyler Anderson, who is in the second year of a three-year, $39 million deal. Anderson has posted a 3.03 ERA in 17 starts this season, making him an attractive option for a team seeking a controllable arm.
As the trade deadline approaches, the Braves are actively engaging with teams that are expected to be sellers, such as the Chicago White Sox, Los Angeles Angels, and Miami Marlins. With a deep farm system and a clear intent to contend, Atlanta is well-positioned to make impactful moves that could shape their postseason aspirations .
