The Atlanta Braves are already a favorite to reach the World Series in October but they may look to further increase that possibility with a major deal before the Aug. 1 MLB trade deadline.
In the 2023 MLB season, the Atlanta Braves have been the most dominant force in the sport. They have the best record in the league (67-36), are a powerhouse hitting team, and have a rock-solid pitching staff led by Spencer Strider and Bryce Elder. The team having eight players in this year’s All-Star game is proof of how well-rounded and deep they are.
Yet, if there was a way that opponents might be able to upset the Braves in the playoffs it would be by subduing their lineup just enough to make games competitive. Because their pitching staff is not a lockdown group that can’t be beaten. That is probably why a top league insider believes they are a team to watch before the trade deadline since they have a clear need and are a good fit for one of the big sellers on this year’s market.
Atlanta Braves could target All-Star pitcher Michael Lorenzen
On Monday, MLB Network league insider Jon Morosi claimed “The Braves and Tigers made a deal last offseason and the organizations still match up well. Atlanta wants to add a starter. The Tigers have [Michael] Lorenzen and [Eduardo] Rodríguez available.”
After years as a solid reliever, Lorenzen transitioned back to being a starter and has excelled over the last season and a half. In 2023, he earned All-Star honors for the first time as he posted a 3.58 ERA and a 5-7 record for the Detroit Tigers. Rodriguez has had a career year in his eighth season with a 2.95 ERA and 6-5 record in 15 starts.
Lorenzen or Rodriguez would slot in as a fantastic third or fourth starter in the Atlanta Braves rotation.