5 trades to bolster second-half squad, including Brent Rooker

On Tuesday, the Atlanta Braves hit the panic button and called an impromptu team meeting. The moment was another sign that the organization needs to make some impactful moves quickly if it hopes to be a legitimate playoff contender in the final stretch.

This has been one of the most frustrating seasons in recent memory for the Atlanta Braves. No, they’re not a disaster, underachieving and at the bottom of the National League East standings. No, they’re entering today’s MLB playoffs with the top spot in the Wild Card race.

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But this is far from a classic Braves team. Top stars Ronald Acuna Jr. and Spencer Strider are done for the season. And they’re dealing with injuries to a few other players, including a broken wrist for second baseman Ozzie Albies.

It’s no surprise that they’ve struggled to get through the All-Star break, and that’s clearly a concern for the players in the Braves locker room. Tuesday night, The Athletics Atlanta beat writer David O’Brien reported that the “Braves are having a team meeting right now. It’s very unusual for them to have a team meeting at this time before a game.”

It was clear that Atlanta’s players were trying to keep the wagons in a circle and prevent the momentum from shifting in the wrong direction. Unfortunately, they couldn’t do it, and they lost for the third straight day, this time 4-1 to the Reds. The organization needs to make at least a few moves before the MLB trade deadline on July 30. Here are four logical targets on the current trade market.

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5 Atlanta Braves trade targets to bolster second-half roster

Tyler Andersen

While the Atlanta Braves need to improve their 2024 roster, looking ahead isn’t bad either. That’s why Los Angeles Angels ace Tyler Anderson should be an option. The 34-year-old is coming off one of the best seasons of his career, and the two-time All-Star is on the books for a very affordable $15 million next season. He could have a big impact this season and be a backup plan if they lose Max Fried to free agency and Charlie Morton to retirement this winter.

Jazz Chisholm Jr.

Miami Marlins star Jazz Chisholm Jr. has been linked to the Braves for weeks and it almost seems like a must-have move. The former All-Star can play multiple positions. He’s only 26 years old and under team control for two more seasons. There are few better players for the team on this year’s trade market.

Avenue Thomas

The Washington Nationals are expected to sell by July 30th, and the Braves have reportedly been fans of outfielder Lane Thomas for some time. The 28-year-old would be a solid addition who adds depth to the outfield and some pop to the batting order. He wouldn’t cost much and is signed for another season at an affordable price.

Erik Fedde

While there has been much talk of the Chicago White Sox moving All-Star Garrett Crochet, it seems more likely that fellow starter Erick Fedde will be moved. The veteran pitcher is coming off a banner year and would be an affordable option to bolster the rotation. Assuming he is in his prime and pitches like this for the next few seasons, his $7.5 million contract in 2025 is a steal.

Brent Rooker

It’s unclear whether the Oakland Athletics would actually trade talented young All-Star Brent Rooker. But if they are willing to entertain offers, he feels like a perfect Atlanta Braves player. He was a notable All-Star snub this month and is coming off an even better season than last year.

The 29-year-old is a legitimate slugger who is on pace to hit 40-plus home runs this season and has three more seasons under the team’s control. He’s a player worth giving up some premium prospects for.