Atlanta Braves injuries mount as trade deadline approaches

2 of 4

What to expect from Duvall

Most remember Duvall’s acquisition and subsequent slump last year. The Braves knew Duvall struggled early in 2018 but hoped he’d regain some of his past form with help from Kevin Seitzer and by playing more frequently. That didn’t materialize, but the Braves tendered him a $2.9M contract and stashed him at Gwinnett.

Duvall’s been a key part of the Stripers lineup this season, posting a .259/.349/.582/.931 line that includes 29 homers, 19 doubles, and three triples gives him a 119 OPS+. His R/L split remain wide, but he’s been better against RHP than in the past.

2019 Player Batting Splits
Split	G	PA	AB	HR	RBI	BB	SO	BA	OBP	SLG	OPS	SF	IBB
vs RHP as RHB	90	289	257	19	63	21	60	.241	.318	.537	.855	2	0
vs LHP as RHB	54	108	89	10	21	19	20	.315	.435	.719	1.154	0	2

Provided by Baseball-Reference.com: View Original Table

The best the Atlanta Braves should expect at the plate is the 2016 version of Adam Duvall – .241/.297/.498/.795, a (prorated) dozen homers and 105 wRC+. Defensively, though, Duvall’s been a superior left fielder.

Season	Innings	DRS	UZR	FRAA
2016	1173.3	16	8.2	11.5
2017	1277.3	8	4.9	6.8
2018	766.3	17	6.6	7.1
2019 AAA	205	2		6.8

If he does that the Braves on-field production should be close to the that of Markakis with better defense, although it will mean flipping Ronald Acuna Jr. to right field.

They must fill Duvall’s role as backup outfielder, just in case something else happens, or Austin Riley doesn’t get his act together. Who might do that requires a look at available outfielders.

Alex Anthopoulos’ preferred acquisitions play solid defense as well as show consistent offense. These deals always force a rent or buy option; should the team reduce the cost and rent a potential free agent, and if they like his performance, attempt to sign him after the season, or trade for a longer-term asset now. The answer depends on the player and his price.

Here’s a look at ten players, five in each category.