MLB trade deadline: This Braves-Marlins deal could land a real Ronald Acuña replacement

Joc Pederson has already made a powerful impression in the ATL, but if the Braves are serious about contending they should try and deal for Starling Marte.

Marte won’t be easy to obtain, of course. The Miami Marlins are a hated rival of the Braves, and it would be ironic if they were the team to help Atlanta find a decent Ronald Acuña replacement after playing a role in injuring the star player.

Miami is still in the market for a Marte extension, but assuming that doesn’t come to fruition, he can be had for a fairly reasonable price given he’s about to hit the free agent market.

On the season, Marte is hitting .288 with nine home runs, 22 RBIs and 19 stolen bases.

MLB rumors: Braves could be suitor for Starling Marte

Per FanSided MLB insider Robert Murray, the Braves make a lot of sense as a Marte landing spot.

"“There is expected to be a strong market for Marte, with the Houston Astros, Philadelphia Phillies, New York Yankees and Atlanta Braves likely to show interest.”"

The Braves would have strong competition for any Marte trade, which likely increases his value. A top-10 prospect is a must, even for just one season of Marte, should they hope to win this sweepstakes.

Still, it’s nothing outrageous.

That’s two top-20 prospects, both near or at Major League-level, for a player ready to hit the free agent market in a few months. Feel steep? Well, that’s what happens when you deal in the division, and for an obvious weakness at that.

The Braves could be better suited looking elsewhere for more outfield depth, but Marte is the best, most affordable option out there at the moment. Both De La Cruz (8th-ranked) and Greyson Jenista (17th-ranked) are among the Braves top prospects and blocked by other players in the system. They’re 24 years old.

The time is now to trade them, if ever.