Braves rumors: 3 All-Stars not named Juan Soto to trade for
By Tim Boyle
2) Braves All-Star trade target not named Juan Soto: Joc Pederson
Oh, you like repeating history? What about if Joc Pederson becomes available. The San Francisco Giants sent him to the All-Star Game. If they decide to sell, a reunion might be in order.
Pederson couldn’t be having a much different year than Benintendi. He’s hitting .252/.331/.517 with 17 home runs already. He hit 18 in all of last season split between his time with the Braves and Chicago Cubs.
As unnecessary as it might be for Atlanta to add more power to their lineup, it’s not something they need to avoid. Pederson is already familiar with the organization, many of the players, and the coaches. There’s no adjustment whatsoever. He just needs to see his team fall far enough out of contention to become a trade candidate over the next few days.
Pederson won’t be wishing for that fate in San Francisco, but that will be out of his control. One at-bat every nine batters takes away his ability to ensure the Giants are playoff-bound as the Braves look likely to be.
Due to his impending free agency, the Giants will undoubtedly look to shop Pederson around if they believe this isn’t their year. It obviously isn’t but if they do stay in the race before August 2, it’ll be tough for them to sell even if they are chasing a lot of teams.