4 NL outfielders the Atlanta Braves should consider ahead of the deadline
The National League may have the key to Atlanta's need for an outfielder.
The Atlanta Braves' deadline desperation continues to grow with this past week's loss of Ozzie Albies and Max Fried. To call the offensive output anemic is generous of what we have seen since the All-Star break.
While hope remains, the Braves pulling off a surprise run appears increasingly unlikely. This isn't 2021 with stalwarts Freddie Freeman and Dansby Swanson often coming up clutch. You have a lineup of struggling hitters that aren't going to be fixed by adding offensive talent to the outfield.
For Atlanta to have a chance, Fried and Albies must return before the end of the season. If that happens, you still need Matt Olson, Sean Murphy, and Austin Riley to put up better numbers. While Riley has improved the team still needs better power numbers from all three. With all of this in mind, let's look at four outfielders who could help Atlanta's offensive performance until they are a bit closer to healthy.
4 NL outfielders the Atlanta Braves should consider ahead of the MLB trade deadline
Jesse Winker
Winker has put up a 2.2 WAR this season with 11 homers, 44 RBI, and 14 stolen bases. This production would easily make him one of Atlanta's best hitters. Eddie Rosario and Adam Duvall both continue to struggle despite returning to Atlanta. Jarred Kelenic thrived in the leadoff spot for a little while before hitting a rough patch recently.
This offense badly needs a boost from the outfield and that could be Jesse Winker. The Nationals aren't climbing past the Braves and Mets in the wildcard race. Very likely to be sellers the Braves should have a healthy level of interest in the left-handed hitter. Atlanta has already been tied to Winker's teammate Lane Thomas so the Braves could consider either of them for their corner outfielder need.
Brenton Doyle
The fact that Doyle is under control for at least three more years makes this the most unlikely fit. However, considering the Rockies current standing any player could be on the table. Doyle is quietly having an offensive breakout season.
The second-year player is hitting .279 and has driven in 50 while scoring 59 runs. Add in 20 stolen bases and a .343 OBP and it is easy to fall in love with the idea of adding the Rockies outfielder. Doyle isn't a terribly flashy player but has solid speed and power finding ways to get on base. Exactly the opposite of the current Atlanta Braves lineup.
Jesús Sánchez
The Braves and Marlins have a history of trades despite both residing in the NL East. While this may not be the Marlin that many Braves fans would like it is the far better fit. The team would add a veteran bat who can platoon with a career .250 average against right-handers.
Duvall would benefit from not being in the lineup as often and your offense gets a bit better. While this isn't a splashy addition, it is an affordable one that improves your depth and the current roster pieces.
Jake Fraley
Yes, this isn't the perfect defensive fit for Atlanta, however, they simply can't afford to be picky. Fraley fits what your roster is lacking and should be very affordable. The Reds have fallen out of contention and should be looking to shed veterans at the deadline.
Fraley has a career average of over .260 against right-handers and would be a great platoon option as well. Fraley doesn't have great power but finds ways to get on base and has above-average speed. Fraley isn't saving Atlanta's season but he makes the team far more watchable as the fans wait and hope for the returns of Fried, Albies, and Michael Harris II.