It's about time for the Atlanta Braves to start considering their plans for the 2025 MLB trade deadline. Atlanta has underperformed expectations and is currently in a state of uncertainty. How the month of June turns out will determine just how aggressively Atlanta will be buyers or even sellers at the deadline.
The Braves currently sit in third place in the NL East with a 31-38 record before Sunday's game against the Rockies. However, Atlanta has an expected win-loss of 37-32 (this number is calculated based on runs scored versus runs allowed). It has placed the team in a tough position.
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They are 13 games behind the first-place Mets, so the division is practically over unless something drastic happens. Atlanta is also 7 games behind the top wild card spot, so they still have a chance, but they have to start winning more games consistently if they want a chance at the postseason.
While Braves' trade deadline plans are flexible, there are no plans to sell right now
There has been speculation about what the Braves should do, including trading Sean Murphy. However, it's unclear if the team would actually part with him despite Drake Baldwin's impressive season. While there is some value in trading away redundant roster pieces, it could come at the expense of win this season and that could be problematic if Atlanta is playing well.
Anthopoulos has said the team plans on being aggressive and they will do so "whether it's making changes, making trades, we're gonna do that." He also stated in an interview with the Atlanta Journal-Constitution that there isn't anything imminent, but he has "been more active than I’ve been in the past. Not that you’re not doing it at all times, but look, when you’re not playing well, you have to look at yourself and say, what can I do?"
So, AA says there's a plan to be aggressive, and he's being active. That would lead fans to believe they aren't going to be sellers. This was sort of confirmed by MLB insider Bob Nightengale of USA Today.
Nightengale stated that general managers from other teams who have spoken with Anthopoulos are convinced he has no interest in giving up players for prospects. This would help confirm the reporting that he is active in finding ways to improve the team, not weaken it.
Anthopoulos has faced valid criticism for not doing enough in the offseason to help improve the bullpen and starting rotation. The bullpen and offense are the most glaring areas of need. The offense can fix itself but the bullpen is going to need some help from the front office. Anthopoulos needs to do something to give this team a fighting chance.
Again, this could change if the team continues to struggle and falls out of playoff contention. However, with the team showing signs of improvement and Jurickson Profar returning soon, there's no reason they shouldn't look for ways to improve the team this far out.