2 to trade, 2 to keep- 1. A.J. Minter (trade)
This is not what anyone was expecting but the 2024 Atlanta Braves only need to target offense at the trade deadline. Atlanta's pitching staff as a whole ranks 3rd in all of Major League Baseball.
A.J. Minter has been a big part of the Atlanta Braves bullpen for many years now. As the old saying goes, all good things must come to an end. 2024 may be the time for Minter to move on to new endeavors.
ICYMI last night AJ Minter accomplished something not done by a Braves pitcher almost two decades ago. My latest with @HouseHankBuilt https://t.co/kZyLkNwQyO
— Steven Teal (@realteal09) July 10, 2024
A left-handed power arm that has experience in high-leverage situations (including closing games) could bring a hefty return back to Atlanta. Minter is set to become a free agent at season's end and there is a sense of uncertainty that he and the Braves would come to an extension agreement.
The Braves and White Sox seem to have a good rapport with each other when it comes to making deals. A.J. Minter to the White Sox for Tommy Pham could make a lot of sense for both teams.
Trades are a tricky business and the Braves are in a tough position in 2024. The season feels doomed but it also feels hopeful for a turnaround at any moment. These decisions can make or break a team so it's going to be interesting to see what Alex Anthopoulos and company do.