Braves Continue to Seek Pitching Help Ahead of MLB Trade Deadline
By Ryan Giglio
Many see the Los Angeles Dodgers as the best team in the National League by a wide margin.
But with the MLB Trade Deadline just five days away, teams will try to improve their roster to close the gap. The Atlanta Braves, in need of pitching, are no exception.
It was reported that the New York Mets sent top evaluators to the Braves' Triple-A and Double-A teams on Thursday to scout a couple of Atlanta's top prospects. Specifically, Kyle Wright (currently in Triple-A) and Ian Anderson (in Double-A).
A look at where the Braves stand five days before the Trade Deadline https://t.co/0INIQSTrGN
— Mark Bowman (@mlbbowman) July 26, 2019
Braves general manager Alex Anthopoulos is said to be willing to include their top prospects in trades for young, controllable top-talent acquisition like starter Noah Syndergaard and closer Edwin Diaz of the Mets, Pirates closer Felipe Vazquez and starter Marcus Stroman and closer Ken Giles of the Blue Jays.
With Kevin Gausman tossing seven innings and giving up one earned run and five hits against the Nationals in his return from the injured list on Sunday, Atlanta may be more inclined to sure up its bullpen rather than starting rotation.
In fact, Atlanta is one of the favorites to acquire LHP Jake Diekman from the Kansas City Royals.
The Royals could be getting closer to trading Jake Diekman, according to a source. The Dodgers and Braves are believed to be two clubs showing serious interest in the lefty reliever.
— Mark Feinsand (@Feinsand) July 26, 2019
While a trade fro Diekman won't require Atlanta giving up one of its prized prospects, it'll no doubt sure up its staff and possibly give them leverage in other trade discussions.