Key Areas of Focus
General Manager Alex Anthopoulos will primarily be looking to upgrade the outfield. There’s also the potential to bolster an already strong pitching staff, as relievers are affordable and the future of the rotation has some uncertainties.
Shortstop Woes
Another critical area that needs improvement is shortstop. Orlando Arcia may have a rebound in the second half of the season, but he’s not a reliable option for the postseason, which is the Braves’ ultimate goal.
Potential Trade Target: Bo Bichette
In a short series highlighting individual trade targets suggested by CBS Sports’ R.J. Anderson, the highest-profile shortstop potentially on the market is Bo Bichette from the Blue Jays.
Bo Bichette, SS, Blue Jays
Similar to other potential trades, the Blue Jays may not be sellers and are unlikely to part with Bo Bichette unless they receive an enticing offer. However, the Braves could be serious contenders for his services.
Bichette, a 26-year-old shortstop, has shown he can handle the position defensively while providing well-above-average offense. Despite struggling this season, with a .619 OPS and a .231 average with four homers, his career average OPS is above .800. The hope is for positive regression soon. Over three seasons from 2021 to 2023, he accrued 14.4 WAR and consistently finished in the top 16 of the AL MVP race each year.
Strategic Fit
If a trade materializes, Bichette would solidify the shortstop position for this season and the next, as he’s under team control through the 2025 campaign. This could work out perfectly for the Braves, as their shortstop of the future, Nacho Alvarez, is currently excelling in Triple-A Gwinnett. Alvarez could continue to develop in the minors while anticipating taking over for Bichette. Alternatively, the Braves could use Alvarez as trade bait and extend Bichette, a strategy Anthopoulos has successfully employed in the past.
A Change of Scenery
A change of scenery could greatly benefit Bo Bichette. The Braves have a history of helping struggling players find their form in Atlanta. Bichette’s acquisition could be another instance of this magic, potentially providing the Braves with the boost they need for another deep postseason run.
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