Three Trades the Braves Should Consider to Bolster Their Rotation
The Atlanta Braves recently came close to acquiring Garrett Crochet, demonstrating their intent to pursue a top-tier pitcher despite financial and roster constraints. With limited farm system depth and an emphasis on staying below the third luxury tax threshold, GM Alex Anthopoulos may target affordable options in the trade market. Here are three intriguing pitchers the Braves should consider:
3. Jared Jones
Team: Pittsburgh Pirates
Why He’s a Fit:
Jared Jones, a promising young arm, made his MLB debut last season with a 4.14 ERA and 132 strikeouts across 121.2 innings. While his ERA may not grab attention, his skill set is undeniable. Jones boasts a fastball averaging 97.3 mph, complemented by a slider and other secondary offerings.
Given the Braves’ track record for developing pitchers, they could help Jones refine his repertoire, potentially transforming him into a key contributor for the rotation. Still on his rookie deal, Jones is a cost-effective option with plenty of upside. The Pirates, who are in rebuilding mode, might be willing to trade him for major-league-ready prospects to bolster their roster.
If acquired, Jones could begin as a back-end starter in 2025 but might progress into a frontline role, reminiscent of Reynaldo López’s breakout.
2. Jeffrey Springs
Team: Tampa Bay Rays
Why He’s a Fit:
The Rays are in the midst of a rebuild and could consider moving Jeffrey Springs, a talented left-hander who has battled injuries in recent years. Springs showed immense potential in 2022, posting a 2.46 ERA with 144 strikeouts in 135.1 innings. Although injuries limited him to just 49 innings since the start of 2023, he maintained a stellar 2.39 ERA during that span.
Springs relies on deception in his off-speed pitches, including a low-90s four-seamer, a changeup, and a slider. He even experimented with a sweeper before landing on the injured list in 2024. Under contract through 2026 at $10.5 million per year with a $15 million option for 2027, Springs could be a low-risk, high-reward addition to the Braves’ rotation.
1. Dylan Cease
Team: Chicago White Sox
Why He’s a Fit:
Dylan Cease, entering his final year of arbitration, represents an excellent opportunity for the Braves. Cease is projected to earn under $15 million in 2025, making him a financially viable target. His 2024 season was solid, with a 3.47 ERA and 224 strikeouts over 189.1 innings, though his 2023 performance (4.58 ERA) raised some concerns.
The primary allure lies in his 2022 campaign, where he finished as the AL Cy Young runner-up with a dominant 2.20 ERA despite leading MLB in walks. The Braves’ coaching staff has a strong reputation for reviving pitchers’ careers, and they could help Cease return to his peak form.
If the Braves successfully trade for Cease and unlock his full potential, he could elevate their rotation to championship-caliber levels.
As Anthopoulos navigates the trade market, these three pitchers offer a mix of affordability, upside, and impact potential, perfectly aligning with the Braves’ goals to strengthen their rotation without exceeding budgetary constraints.
