Atlanta Braves, buyers and sellers?

Atlanta Braves, the Needs

Looking at the last slide, one can see what Freddie Freeman’s loss for 2 weeks is a brutal blow to this team.  His absence in the lineup will not only affect the overall runs produced, but the players around him that are protected by him just being in the lineup.  This post might be a bit premature as the road trip that just started last night could alter future plans for the club.  The Braves aren’t likely to make the playoffs by taking the Wild Card.  As the standings currently sit, the Braves are 5th in the Wild Card spot meaning they’d have to jump 4 teams just to make it in 2nd Wild Card slot.  It’s the division that’s being dangled out in front of the Braves, a mere 3 games away.  This is the sole reason why I think this road trip means a lot in terms of what the Braves will do at the trade deadline.  Win the next , Braves are only 1 game behind Washington.  Lose the next 2, the deficit increases to 5. And make no mistake, Washington is the better team right now.

So, for entertainment’s sake and something to debate over, let’s just say that the Braves are currently in the market to improve this ball-club.  What are the areas that need improvement?  My opinion, in order of importance:

1/2. Catcher/Relief Core

3. Left Field

4. Third Base

Next: Braves tradable Assets