As the MLB offseason begins, the Atlanta Braves may look to bolster their bullpen in order to improve their chances of securing another World Series title. Their offense and starting rotation are already strong, but adding more depth to the bullpen would provide insurance against injuries or late-game struggles. Here are two hypothetical trade scenarios to upgrade the Braves’ bullpen:
1. **Trade for David Bednar (Pittsburgh Pirates)**
The Pittsburgh Pirates have an established closer in David Bednar, whose stock has risen due to his strong performances over the last couple of seasons. Bednar, a hard-throwing right-hander with a devastating slider, would add much-needed power to the Braves’ bullpen. As of late 2023, Bednar posted a 2.91 ERA with 84 strikeouts in 68 innings, showcasing his ability to dominate both right and left-handed batters.
**What the Braves send to Pittsburgh:**
– **Kyle Wright (RHP)**: The Braves could offer Wright, a talented starting pitcher who has had injury issues recently but still holds significant potential. Wright, a former first-round pick, has shown flashes of excellence when healthy, but with the Braves’ current depth in the rotation, he could be a valuable piece to a rebuilding Pirates team.
– **2024-25 Prospect(s)**: The Braves have one of the most stacked farm systems in baseball, and they could add a mid-tier prospect to the deal to sweeten the pot, such as outfielder **Javier Vazquez** or infielder **Luke Waddell**.
This trade would give the Braves a proven, late-inning option who can serve as either a setup man or closer, depending on how their bullpen shapes up for the season. Bednar would fit seamlessly into their bullpen, strengthening their ability to close out games and handle high-leverage situations.
2. **Trade for Scott Barlow (Kansas City Royals)**
Another intriguing bullpen option for the Braves is Scott Barlow, a veteran reliever from the Kansas City Royals. Barlow has experience as a closer and possesses a solid mix of pitches, including a mid-90s fastball and a sharp slider. Over the past few seasons, Barlow has been a consistent performer in high-leverage roles, with a career ERA under 3.50 and a WHIP of 1.15. His ability to strike out batters (over 10 strikeouts per 9 innings in 2023) makes him an ideal addition to the Braves’ bullpen.
**What the Braves send to Kansas City:**
– **Indigo Diaz (RHP)**: Diaz, a flamethrowing reliever in the Braves’ system, could be the centerpiece of the trade. Diaz is a potential future closer with good control and a fastball that reaches the upper 90s. The Royals, in rebuilding mode, could be very interested in a power arm like Diaz to develop.
– **Prospect(s)**: To balance the deal, the Braves could add a secondary prospect, such as **catcher/designated hitter **Rico Garcia** or **infielder **T.J. Hopkins**.
Barlow would bring versatility to the Braves’ bullpen, whether as a setup man or in a closing role. His experience and strikeout ability would help fortify their late-inning pitching, providing a strong bridge to closer **Raisel Iglesias**.
Both of these trades would strengthen the Braves’ bullpen by adding experienced, high-leverage arms. Bednar provides power and dominance, while Barlow offers a seasoned veteran presence. Either move would allow the Braves to keep their focus on a playoff run, while adding depth and reliability to a crucial area of their roster.
