Every so often Atlanta Braves fans are subject to some ridiculous trade proposals. While the notion of trading for Chris Sale wasn't on many fans radars back in 2023, the trade itself made sense. However, in a recent article from mlb.com writer, Anthony Castrovince, a ton of trades that do not really make sense were thrown out, and the Braves fell victim in one of the deals.
It is clear the offseason presents too much down time for some, and as a result a trade idea where Atlanta sends out way too many of their best prospects is born. If a massive prospect cost was in play, the Braves would surely get a controllable star back in this hypothetical trade package right? Nope, all the Braves get in this scenario is one year of Freddy Peralta. Let's take a look at the details, and why this blockbuster trade would simply classify as a bust.
Hypothetical Freddy Peralta trade would do more damage than good for Braves' future
The full list of ridiculous trades features Paul Skenes and Tarik Skubal getting traded, so the Braves aren't the only fanbase angry at this article. Trading the farm for a rental pitcher is crazy, but Braves fans have also seen people suggest trading Ronald Acuña Jr., so it isn't like we aren't used used to wild, infeasible trade proposals. It is also worth at least thinking through given that Freddy Peralta is a great pitcher, and one who has been among the most consistent arms over the last three seasons.
Peralta finished fifth in Cy Young voting last season, and has struck out at least 200 batters in each of the last three seasons. Last season, Peralta finished in the 97th percentile in pitching run value, and anchored the Brewers rotation all the way to the National League's top seed in 2025.
However, Peralta is not worth the cost of Castrovince's hypothetical three team deal with the Brewers and the Rays. In this deal, the Braves would trade away their top prospect in the system (and Top 100 prospect in baseball) in Cam Caminiti, their 2025 first round pick in Southisene, their top IFA signing from last year in Tornes, and their number 11 prospect in Burkhalter. After listing the entire cost it's pretty easy to see why Anthopoulos would hang up the phone so quickly.
The Brewers are expected to listen to offers on Peralta this winter, and the Braves do have a need at starting pitcher. However, we can all agree that the cost in this deal is simpy way too much. Hopefully, the Braves will have some actual transactions to discuss as we move into December, and we don't have to spend our time bashing hypothetical trades like this one.