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MLB Trade Deadline: 5 trades for Ryan Braun

By Parker Hurley

May 26, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Milwaukee Brewers left fielder Ryan Braun (8) reacts against the Atlanta Braves in the first inning at Turner Field. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
May 26, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Milwaukee Brewers left fielder Ryan Braun (8) reacts against the Atlanta Braves in the first inning at Turner Field. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jul 12, 2016; San Diego, CA, USA; American League pitcher Corey Kluber (28) of the Cleveland Indians throws a pitch in the second inning in the 2016 MLB All Star Game at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 12, 2016; San Diego, CA, USA; American League pitcher Corey Kluber (28) of the Cleveland Indians throws a pitch in the second inning in the 2016 MLB All Star Game at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Cleveland Indians

The Indians have a hole in their outfield. They have a clear window for the World Series, and if one name could push them over the edge offensively this summer, it would be Braun.

To start the season, the Indians were expecting big things from Michael Brantley and Marlon Byrd. Byrd was suspended for the season after 34 games, and Brantley has had a lingering shoulder injury that has limited him to only 11 starts. It remains to be seen when Brantley will be able to play consistently. 

As a result, the outfield has been a combination of Tyler Naquin, Jose Ramirez, Rajai Davis and Lonnie Chisenhall. Ramirez and Chisenhall both started their careers as a third basemen, so it is safe to say Braun would not have a serious negative effect on the defense. None of Cleveland’s outfielders are proven hitters, and Braun would come in and be their best hitter by a wide margin.

Braun could help the Indians moving forward as well. Mike Napoli is a free agent next year, and Carlos Santana will be a free agent the year after. Braun could slide into either a first base or a DH role in the future if needed.

The Indians may also be interested in taking on Jonathan Lucroy with Braun in a package that would limit the pain of paying for an aging Braun by himself. They certainly could use the offensive upgrade, and the move would clearly put them all-in.

Next: 1. Toronto Blue Jays

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