The Atlanta Braves have made their first mark on the offseason with the addition of right-handed reliever Evan Phillips. However, they have more work to do, and with doubt surrounding Mauricio Dubon's return, they may have to use the trade market to their advantage.
Rumors have been swirling that the Orioles may look to move shortstop Gunnar Henderson this offseason. Atlanta has been linked as a potential landing spot for the Alabama native. However, would a trade make sense?
Gunnar Henderson would solve the Braves' shortstop problem, but only temporarily
2026 was a rough season for Henderson, with a .225/.309/.403 slash line, 27 doubles, 24 homers, 59 RBI, and a .712 OPS. He's seen a decline in his offensive production since his breakout 2024 season. That decline could be related to his issues with injury. He struggled with a shoulder issue in 2025 and a wrist issue for most of 2026. He's seen a decline in his offensive production since his breakout 2024 season. That decline could be related to his issues with injury. He struggled with a shoulder issue in 2025 and a wrist issue for most of 2026.
Henderson still played most of those two seasons, but it's something to be wary of. His range at shortstop hasn't been anything special throughout his career. However, he was much better in 2026 with a 1 OAA. Henderson makes up for the lack of range with excellent arm strength. While the Braves need a shortstop and Henderson would be a nice fit, it would be a massive risk. Injuries have plagued Atlanta for years, and they don't want to bring on an injury-prone player.
However, to be fair, fans were worried about this being a problem with Chris Sale, and it hasn't been. It's just a risk the team will need to consider. The other half of this is that Henderson is arbitration-eligible for the next two seasons. He avoided arbitration in 2026 with an $8.5 million contract. Naturally, he will want a raise going into next season.
Atlanta likely wouldn't be able to extend him, but it could work out with the talent they have waiting in the wings. The problem is that any trade would need to include some of that talent to acquire him. In that sense, it would be a nice temporary solution for the Braves until someone like Alex Lodise or Tate Southisene is ready to take over at shortstop.
Mauricio Dubon will determine what the Braves do ultimately. The Braves may be more willing to complete a risky trade if they have no better options to consider.
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