Braves: 3 pitchers to trade for after Mike Soroka’s latest setback

Michael Fulmer can start, finish games and is not on an expiring contract

This all circles back to the Braves bullpen being atrocious. This team knew it probably was not going to get very much, if anything, out of Soroka this year. While it remains to be seen what he can give the Braves in 2022 and beyond that, it might serve this team to go out and get a pitcher like Michael Fulmer of the Detroit Tigers who can do a little bit of everything on the mound.

Fulmer had been a starting pitcher in his first four seasons in Tigers uniform. He was named AL Rookie of the Year in 2016 and an American League All-Star the year prior. While he has been an excellent starter throughout his big-league career, he has moved to the bullpen out of necessity for the struggling Tigers. And guess what? Fulmer is actually thriving in his new role with them.

In 24 appearances this year for Detroit, Fulmer has a 3.46 ERA and a 1.256 WHIP in 39.0 innings pitched. He has made four starts for the Tigers, as well as closed out six games for them. In essence, the Braves would be getting a pitcher who could amplify the bullpen, spot-start and will not be hitting free agency until 2023. If the price is right, he is worth the Braves trading for him.

Ultimately, if the Braves do look to add a piece to their pitching staff, it will probably be a relief pitcher to potentially fix their bullpen. However, they could be in the market for a starting pitcher if the Braves have their doubts about Soroka contributing at the big-league level next year. If the Braves do acquire a starting pitcher, it would have to be with next season in the back of their mind.

What arms should the Braves look at trading for to help offset not having Soroka going forward?