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

Sean Newcomb continues to not make the most of his opportunities in Atlanta

It is amazing what a difference a year makes. The Braves had to rely on its rock-solid bullpen a year ago while the starting rotation was in flux due to lack of experience. Flash forward to this year, and it is the complete opposite. Atlanta is getting quality starts out of most if its pitchers, but much of its bullpen has underwhelmed. One player who has really struggled is Sean Newcomb.

At one point in his career, Newcomb had been a top prospect in the Los Angeles Angels system. He came to the Braves in the Andrelton Simmons trade with the Halos. While he has a good fastball and curveball, control and an inability to develop a third pitch moved him from a potential starter to the bullpen. This move has largely contributed to his ERA skyrocketing in the last two seasons.

He boasted a 11.20 ERA in four starts last season. In 2021, Newcomb’s ERA is lower, but is an undesirable 5.82 in 23 appearances out of the Atlanta bullpen. While every other pitcher in the Atlanta bullpen of note has had success at some point in the last three years, Newcomb continues to not get it done in his opportunities. In his late 20s, Newcomb may have time to get this right.

Ultimately, Atlanta will not move any of its big players of note at the deadline. The biggest name would probably be Morton, but let’s not count on that just yet. What we are more likely to see is middle-to-bottom-half of the roster guys potentially being dealt or designated for assignment. If the Braves are not a contender this year, then Atlanta needs to see what the young guys can do.

What other moves could the Braves possibly make to make this disappointing season worthwhile?