2. Milwaukee Brewers trade Ryan Braun
Why would a first place team deal a reliable veteran?
First of all, we’re not expecting the Brewers to be in first place for much longer. A surprisingly decent two months and a mediocre start from the rest of the division (especially the Chicago Cubs) has kept the Brewers atop the standings. But this team isn’t built to last. Not in 2017, anyway.
Milwaukee needs to rebuild its pitching staff. The quickest way that will happen would be to trade someone like Braun.
The New York Mets, San Francisco Giants, Texas Rangers and Toronto Blue Jays were all playoff teams in 2016 and have all had rough starts to 2017. It stands to reason that one of those teams will look to upgrade while a comeback is still within striking distance. Additionally, stronger starters like the Los Angeles Angels or Los Angeles Dodgers could use a jolt to their offenses.
Lastly, moving Braun would open the door for younger outfielders like Lewis Brinson and Corey Ray — Milwaukee’s two top prospects. Ray is still poking around the lower levels of minor league ball, but Brinson is thriving at Triple-A, slashing .315/.405/.504.
June is the perfect time to end the Braun era in Milwaukee and let the next generation of Brewers step in.