The Atlanta Braves are coming off another successful season but have identified key areas that need improvement to remain contenders for a World Series title. Among the primary concerns for the Braves are their rotation depth and their ability to upgrade at shortstop. While the Braves have a loaded lineup and a potent bullpen, addressing these two areas could make them even more dangerous in 2024 and beyond. A trade with the Chicago Cubs could solve both problems simultaneously.
The proposed trade would involve the Braves acquiring Cubs shortstop Nico Hoerner and starting pitcher Marcus Stroman. This deal would bring Atlanta immediate help in both the infield and the rotation, providing a significant upgrade to their roster.
First, let’s address the shortstop position. While the Braves currently have Vaughn Grissom and Orlando Arcia, both are unproven as everyday options for a postseason contender. Grissom has shown promise, but his defense is still a work in progress, and he struggled with consistency in 2023. On the other hand, Arcia’s bat is not reliable enough to hold down an everyday job at a premium position. Hoerner would be a huge upgrade. As a contact hitter with a solid on-base percentage and good defensive ability, he would provide both stability and versatility to the Braves’ infield. Hoerner’s ability to hit for average, coupled with his above-average defense, would address two weaknesses for the Braves—an inconsistent shortstop bat and a shaky infield defense.
On the mound, the Braves would benefit from acquiring Marcus Stroman, a proven veteran starting pitcher. While Atlanta has a strong rotation led by Max Fried and Spencer Strider, there are questions about the depth beyond those two. Charlie Morton had an inconsistent season, and the Braves need a reliable No. 3 or No. 4 starter who can be trusted in crucial postseason games. Stroman, who boasts a 3.50 ERA for his career and has proven himself to be a big-game pitcher, would be an ideal fit. His sinker-heavy approach would complement Atlanta’s aggressive, high-strikeout pitching staff and help further solidify the Braves’ rotation. Stroman has the ability to keep the ball on the ground and limit hard contact, providing Atlanta with a reliable option for both the regular season and a deep playoff run.
In return, the Cubs could receive young prospects or a combination of major league-ready talent and minor leaguers, strengthening their rebuild. For the Braves, this trade would be a win-win, addressing two critical weaknesses while keeping their window for contention wide open.
