Atlanta Braves Rumors: 3 trade deadline deals to make, 2 to avoid

Braves trade to avoid: Eduardo Rodriguez

Just a month ago, Eduardo Rodriguez was one of the best up-and-coming starting pitchers on the trade market. He was expected to be affordable given the looming opt-out in his contract, and perhaps an ace in the making.

But that was a month ago. Rodriguez has since suffered an injury to his finger, which could keep him out for close to a month. If he is out that long, then there is no guarantee the Tigers will trade him at all. In fact, Detroit would be better served hanging onto him, as Rodriguez would likely opt into the final few years of his deal. No suitor would want to be on the hook for the remainder of his contract, especially without knowing exactly how severe this injury is.

In the last two years, Rodriguez has shown flashes of brilliance. He also missed the majority of last season. E-Rod was expected to be the top starting pitcher on the trade market. It would have given new Tigers general manager Scott Harris unprecedented power, and a chance to make his imprint on this Detroit roster. Instead, Rodriguez remains an unknown.

From the Braves perspective, they cannot afford to take a such a chance. Rodriguez has been solid when healthy, but who knows how he’ll look when he returns?