Trading Ender Inciarte Would Be a Mistake for the Braves
By Charles Nason
The Atlanta Braves face a tough decision as to what to do with center-fielder Ender Inciarte. The 28 year-old has been on the injured list since May 15 with a lower back strain. Saturday, he started baseball activities for the first time since he sustained the injury.
Inciarte has also been involved in recent trade rumors. Batting just .218 this season in only 40 appearances, Inciarte's value has dropped significantly. However, he still has plenty to offer the Braves, who are fighting for first in the NL East.
Ender Inciarte was on the field doing some drills during #Braves batting practice today. Still no timetable for return. Snitker said it's doubtful Braves would go with 7 relievers instead of 8 when he returns, so look for a position-player move at that time.
— David O'Brien (@DOBrienATL) May 31, 2019
As an above-average career hitter and solid defensive player, Inciarte gives the Braves the depth in the outfield that they lack otherwise. Down the stretch, they may need a guy like Inciarte to serve as a defensive replacement or bench hitter.
Also, with his meager performance so far in the 2019 year, Inciarte's value has shot down. If the Braves wanted something valuable in return for him, it would be wise to wait until he can make a full recovery and possibly even salvage his disappointing season.
Brian Snitker provides updates on injured Ender Inciarte and Darren O'Day and describes what it's like facing future Hall of Famer Miguel Cabrera.@Braves | #ChopOn pic.twitter.com/bKxZIEbRbm
— FOX Sports: Braves (@FOXSportsBraves) May 31, 2019
With the MLB trade deadline still over a month away and Inciarte on the IL, the Braves should wait and see how he progresses. If Inciarte returns and plays well, the Braves can choose to hang on to him or trade him with more value to his name. Until then, however, there's really no point in entertaining those thoughts.