The Atlanta Braves have been one of the most underwhelming teams of the 2024 season, though their struggles are not entirely of their own making.
While their offense has been far from the historic powerhouse that led them to the top seed in the National League last year, a slew of injuries has prevented them from reaching their full potential.
The most glaring absence is Ronald Acuña Jr., who is sidelined for the rest of the season due to a torn left ACL. However, he’s not the only significant loss. Ozzie Albies has been out since July 21 with a fractured left wrist, which will keep him on the injured list for at least eight weeks.
The pitching staff has also been heavily impacted. Max Fried was placed on the IL with left arm neuritis on the same day as Albies, and ace Spencer Strider is out for the season following Tommy John surgery in April. The loss of these two key pitchers has severely hampered the Braves’ World Series aspirations, a reality the team is acutely aware of.
According to Jon Heyman of The New York Post, the Braves are eyeing a trade for White Sox ace Garrett Crochet. Crochet, with a 3.23 ERA and the second-most strikeouts in the majors at 160, is highly sought after. His impressive performance for a struggling White Sox team, combined with a relatively modest salary of $800,000, makes him an attractive option for Atlanta.
However, Crochet has expressed a desire to remain a starter despite his skill set being more suited to a relief role, and he is also seeking a contract extension from any team that acquires him. His history of elbow and shoulder issues could influence how teams view his trade value, but his performance this season has been strong enough to make him a valuable asset.
Given their current situation, the Braves would benefit greatly from acquiring Crochet to boost their pitching staff and reignite their season. Making a move before another contender secures him could be crucial for Atlanta as they look to turn their season around. Without adding some pitching depth, the Braves may find themselves focusing on the next season rather than contending for a championship this year.