REPORT: Braves and Blue Jays Trade for Marcus Stroman and Ken Giles Once Again a Possibility
By Brian Cass
As we approach the July 31 trade deadline for the MLB, reports have heated up about possible moves. Among those reports, the Atlanta Braves have been rumored to have interest in the Toronto Blue Jays ace Marcus Stroman along with relief pitcher Ken Giles.
Although a trade between the two teams didn't seem like a possibility at first, reports have suggested the Blue Jays are now open to dealing either Stroman or Giles to Atlanta, or perhaps even both.
If #BlueJays indeed were reluctant to trade with #Braves, that stance has softened, sources say. Thus, Stroman and/or Giles to ATL possible. As Dave notes, Giles might be preference. Anthopoulos acquired two of his other former Jays - Bautista (later released) and Donaldson. 2/2
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) July 21, 2019
After Braves GM Alex Anthopoulos left the Blue Jays in 2015, some believed Tornonto would be reluctant to deal with Atlanta due to lingering resentment between the two clubs. But, as this latest report suggests, that may no longer be the case.
Acquiring both Stroman and Giles would certainly bolster the Braves pitching staff, and it would cement them as one of the best teams in the NL as we approach postseason play.
Am hearing #Braves have not had talks w/ Jays concerning Stroman. I get impression Giles could be a target, but ask is high due to year (2020) of control. Still, with ATL needing a closer and not having obvious candidate in system, Giles w/ his reasonable year of arb makes sense.
— David O'Brien (@DOBrienATL) July 21, 2019
With the deadline just over a week away, looks for the Braves to be working overtime to keep in improving the club.