Atlanta Braves: 4 disappointments who should be replaced at the trade deadline

Ender Inciarte’s best days as a big leaguer are firmly behind him in Atlanta

Prior to the Marcell Ozuna fiasco, the Ender Inciarte contract had been the worst on the Braves’ books for at least a year or so. At one point in his career, Inciarte was an All-Star-level player who could play Gold Glove defense in the outfield. Unfortunately, he has not been that type of player since 2018. Other better players have emerged on the Braves roster in the last several seasons.

Inciarte might only be in his early 30s, but he is on an expiring contract for the Braves. He is getting more playing time of late with Ozuna being out of the lineup and Atlanta’s top prospect Cristian Pache having not taken the starting centerfield spot and ran with it. Eventually, the Braves will have to bring Pache back up to the big leagues, or see if Drew Waters is ready for his shot.

Frankly, a fresh start might help jumpstart the next stage of Inciarte’s career. He can still run and play great defense. While the offensive part of his game has taken a dip, a new team might be the best thing for him. As for the Braves, trading Inciarte away could give Pache or Waters playing time, or allow an even longer runway for Guillermo Heredia to make the most of his opportunity.

Since Inciarte is not expected to be back with the Braves next year, they could cut bait a little early.