The Atlanta Braves are consistently a presence at this time of year. While they may not always make the most high-profile signings, Alex Anthopoulos always finds a way to make his mark.
Last year, the Braves traded for starting pitcher Chris Sale from the Boston Red Sox, who went on to win the National League Cy Young. This year, Atlanta may focus on strengthening their offense, which struggled and prevented them from reaching the postseason.
Ronald Acuña Jr. will be back, and Michael Harris II isn’t going anywhere, but the Braves faced significant challenges in finding a reliable left fielder in 2024. Jarred Kelenic, acquired in a trade last winter, struggled with inconsistency, which could prompt Alex Anthopoulos to look for a replacement.
As far as trade targets go, Kyle Tucker of the Houston Astros would be the ultimate prize, should he become available this winter. Astros general manager Dana Brown fueled speculation on Monday by stating that anyone could be traded, including Tucker.
On Tuesday, John Buhler of FanSided suggested an ambitious trade idea: acquiring Tucker from the Astros in exchange for Kelenic, pitcher A.J. Smith-Shawver, and catcher Drake Baldwin, both of whom are ranked among Atlanta’s top five prospects.
“For Atlanta, the Braves add the all-star-caliber player it needs to attempt to have a positive offseason. The idea of Anthopoulos extending Tucker immediately upon arrival is quite good,” Buhler said.
“Kelenic is a mega-talent, but is streaky as hell and as inconsistent as they come as an outfielder. Since Atlanta does not want to trade Hurston Waldrep, give the Astros AJ Smith-Shawver instead. To really sweeten the deal, Drake Baldwin makes it a trio going to Houston.”
With Tucker on the Braves, Atlanta would have a solid starting outfield set for nearly every game next season. Either Acuña or Tucker could easily handle the left field duties at Truist Park, forming a strong defensive trio alongside Harris in center.
However, Tucker is only under contract for one more year, so acquiring him would hinge on the Braves’ ability to extend him—something Alex Anthopoulos is known for. Spotrac currently estimates Tucker’s value at a seven-year, $195 million deal.
Can the Braves pull off both a trade for Tucker and an extension before Opening Day at Truist Park? It may be a challenge, but given Anthopoulos’ track record, it’s never wise to rule anything out.
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