Last week, Alex Anthopoulos told MLB Network Radio that the Braves will be looking to add a left-handed bat before the traded deadline. With Eddie Rosario coming back, I imagine it will be a player who can play second base and platoon with Eddie Rosario, but there’s also a chance Anthopoulos is looking to add an outfielder, given there’s no telling what to expect from Rosario when he returns and regression could be in line eventually for Michael Harris. With that in mind, this continues my series of potential trade candidates for the Braves.
If you missed the first part of this series, follow the link below:
Ian Happ
If the Braves wanted to make a big splash at the trade deadline that will fill all of their needs, Ian Happ should be their primary target. The 27-year-old switch hitter has bounced back this season, hitting .289 with an .854 OPS. He knows how to get on base and has some pop in his bat, but perhaps his most important attribute as far as the Braves are concerned is his defensive versatility.
Happ can play every position in the outfield, and he also has experience at second and third base. The Braves could put him all over the diamond, giving players who are slumping rest when they see fit. That would be an incredible weapon for Brian Snitker down the stretch, especially with question marks surrounding Albies, Rosario, and even Michael Harris II.
Happ also comes with an extra year of control this season, which should intrigue the Braves even more. The only problem with all of this is the price tag will be steep. This is a controllable All-Star caliber player. Alex Anthopoulos would have to be willing to part ways with a couple of top prospects, but given the Braves championship window and the future outlook of the roster, it might be worth it. I would love to add Happ; he would make Atlanta that much more difficult to beat come October, but I’m not sure if he’s the type of player the Braves are looking for because of how much he will cost in terms of prospects.
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