3 Moves Braves Can Make to Better Prepare Themselves for Shortened MLB Season

The 2020 MLB season starting at some point in the near future sounds much more reasonable than it did a few days ago after the owners conceded and agreed to prorated salaries. In a unique, truncated season, a team like the Atlanta Braves could be uniquely positioned to rise to the top of the pile given their eclectic mix of veterans and young stars. Brian Snitker and the Braves will have a good shot at the World Series should they pull off these three moves.

3. Call Up Touki Toussaint

Atlanta Braves righty Touki Toussaint / Rob Tringali/Sportschrome/Getty Images

Toussaint has seen limited action in two seasons with the Braves, and 2020 could be a pivotal season as it pertains to his place within the organization. With a back end of the rotation that needs some fine-tuning, why not give Toussaint a chance to win the No. 5 starter spot? With an electric curveball and explosive fastball, him finally fulfilling his potential could be that surprise breakout that gives the Braves a division crown.

2. Get Christian Pache Some At-Bats

Atlanta Braves outfielder Christian Pache / Christian Petersen/Getty Images

If service time manipulation wasn't a thing, Pache would have already been on the major league roster. Pache's five-tool potential is truly mouth-watering, and Atlanta should bank on his skills winning them a game or two late in a season in which every game becomes that much more impactful. The era of Nick Markakis and Ender Inciarte is coming to an end, and the Braves could use a shortened 2020 to gradually ween Pache into playing time before committing to him in 2021 as a full-time starter.

1. Try Trading for a Reliever

Toronto Blue Jays closer Ken Giles / Vaughn Ridley/Getty Images

As soon as the Braves are able, they should try to trade for an elite reliever like Chicago White Sox closer Alex Colome or Toronto Blue Jays righty Ken Giles. Mark Melancon, Will Smith, and Shane Greene sounds solid enough, but last year's postseason shows that the Braves can never have enough great relievers, especially in a sprint to the finish. Giles or Colome as the new closer in a season that will place a tremendous amount of responsibility on bullpens could give them the edge over the Nationals.