MLB Rumors: Top trade targets for the Braves, Cardinals and Cubs

MLB Rumors: Braves could trade for Mike Clevinger

Mike Clevinger was accused of domestic and child abuse, but after an investigation by police and MLB, was ultimately not suspended and won’t face charges.

So far this season, Clevinger has a 4.79 ERA, and while that might not be too impressive to Braves fans, his stuff suggests he’s better than that mark. Get him in the right pitching staff and with the right coach, Clevinger could take off and be the bottom-of-the-rotation pitcher Atlanta needs right now after the injuries to Max Fried and Kyle Wright. FanSided MLB insider Robert Murray argued that Clevinger is a decent trade option for contenders looking to take an early swing on the market:

"“On the surface, Clevinger’s numbers — 4.79 ERA and 35/18 strikeout-to-walk ratio — aren’t that impressive. But he has allowed three or less runs in five of his eight starts, with his ERA inflated by a six-run appearance against the Toronto Blue Jays on April 25. He may not fetch much in a trade, especially being on a contract year, but could help a contender in need of rotation depth.”"

Chicago is a trash heap at the moment, and assuming they don’t turn things around, Clevinger will almost surely be on the way out at the trade deadline. Atlanta would be smart to act quickly before other pitching-needy teams get in on the action. Both Clevinger and Lucas Giolito are expected to be former White Sox by the time August roles around.