A Braves-SF Giants trade for a clear upgrade, but not Joc Pederson

The Atlanta Braves could make a trade with the San Francisco Giants before the deadline, but Joc Pederson seems unlikely.

The San Francisco Giants have all the answers to the Atlanta Braves pressing question. Atlanta needs starting pitching, especially with Max Fried and Kyle Wright out long-term. Fried is expected to be the first of those two back in the fold, but that won’t come until mid-July at the earliest.

Earlier this week, the Braves recalled Dylan Dodd, who struggled in his first go-around in the ATL. Considering Michael Soroka is readily available, that’s a questionable decision. Soroka has looked excellent of late, and if Dodd’s issues continue, expect Alex Anthopoulos to have a quick hook and send him back to Gwinnett.

With that in mind, Anthopoulos should also scour the trade market for a potential pitching upgrade. While the Braves have traded with the Giants in the past, dealing for Alex Cobb — who has an ERA just over two in 10 appearances — could be the answer to all of their problems.

What a Braves-Giants trade for Alex Cobb would look like

FanSided’s Cody Williams laid out the argument of dealing for Cobb just a few days ago:

"“Cobb has legitimately pitched like a Cy Young candidate this season, as surprising as that may sound. Through 10 starts with San Francisco, he’s posted a 4-1 record with a 2.17 ERA and 1.31 WHIP on the season. He’s also posted a Quality Start in half of his outings this year, showing immense prowess from the 35-year-old veteran.What makes Cobb intriguing as a trade target, though, is that his contract is almost up with just a $10 million club option remaining for next season.”"

While Cobb’s contract does make him a more attractive commodity, it also makes him a more expensive one. Here’s what a trade might look like:

Grissom’s value isn’t as high as it was this winter, but he’s still a capable bat if the Giants can find a position for him. Schwellenbach, meanwhile, is one of Atlanta’s top-10 prospects, while Quintero is a long-term project who can play multiple positions.

This trade may not get things done from San Francisco’s perspective, as they’re selling high on Cobb. But considering his advanced age, I’m betting on that price coming down slightly.