Braves predicted to make blockbuster trade for $56M rival Cy Young winner to pair with Chris Sale

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Braves predicted to make blockbuster trade for $56M rival Cy Young winner to pair with Chris Sale originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Atlanta Braves knew heading into the offseason that there was a possibility they would need another starting pitcher. However, the Braves did not make that move, which may have been due to the organization being selective about potential additions. Braves GM Alex Anthopoulos made it clear he wanted a pitcher capable of starting a playoff game.

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“We’ve explored the starting rotation, adding and getting some type of starter, whether that’s trade or signing. We’d like for it to be someone impactful, someone we think can start a playoff game,” Anthopoulos said.

Now the Braves are in a position where they may simply be happy to add any reliable arm after a series of injuries to the rotation. First, Spencer Schwellenbach and Hurston Waldrep went down with the same injury. More recently, Joey Wentzwas ruled out for the season.

“One awkward step has cost Atlanta Braves left-handed pitcher Joey Wentz the 2026 season. The club said Monday that Wentz tore the ACL in his right knee while covering first base against the Tampa Bay Rays on Sunday. There was initial hope that Wentz had avoided serious injury, but further testing revealed the ligament tear,” ESPN wrote.

A trade could be the route Atlanta chooses, which would not be surprising given Anthopoulos’ history of making aggressive moves. One name to watch is Sandy Alcantara of the Miami Marlins.

“The Marlins moved two veteran-ish starters this offseason (Edward Cabrera and Ryan Weathers) but hung on to Alcantara, who was a prime trade candidate last winter and again at last year's trade deadline. He instead remains in Miami. How long will that last? I don't think it will be too much longer given his $17 million salary this year and $21 million club option next year. Interested teams will give up more to get two postseason of Alcantara rather than one, making a trade this summer more likely,” CBS Sports’ Mike Axisa wrote.

Acquiring Alcantara would be a risk worth taking for the Braves, especially given his success at the major league level. Last season was not his best as he worked his way back from injury, but this year would mark a fully healthy campaign.

Atlanta is in desperate need of a starter, and Alcantara is a pitcher the organization knows well. The Braves have a chip on their shoulder this season, but it could be difficult to reach their goals if they cannot keep the rotation healthy.

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