The Atlanta Braves could acquire outfield depth before the deadline.
Atlanta leads the National League Wild Card race entering Friday, 47-38, and has every reason to believe it can compete for a World Series championship this season.
Despite losing Ronald Acuña Jr. for the season, the Braves still have a strong roster. As July 30 approaches, Atlanta is trying to supplement that skill with one or two players to assure that the Braves are a well-oiled machine by September.
As previously known, Atlanta is interested in adding a starting pitcher, but the Braves are also seeking for offensive reinforcements.
Jesse Winker of the Washington Nationals is one name that has unexpectedly surfaced in connection with Atlanta. In a July 5 article, MLB.com’s executive correspondent Mark Feinsand identified the Braves and Twins as probable destinations for Winker, who was an All-Star for the Cincinnati Reds in 2021.
“The recent promotion of top prospect James Wood could mean the end of Winker’s time in Washington, whether the Nationals become big sellers or not,” Feinsand pointed out. “The 30-year-old is having a nice season (nine home runs, 38 RBIs,.787 OPS in 83 games), and his excellent June (.304/.421/.430) could provide the Nats with a trade chip to either strengthen this year’s team or bring in a prospect or two. Winker is making $2 million this year and will become a free agent following the season.”
Winker appears to be heating up at the plate, and a trade to a contender would likely galvanize him into even more output.
Atlanta will be juggling a couple potential moves over the coming two weeks. Will Winker play a role in the Braves’ long-term plans?
