Braves Rumors: Morton replacement, ESPN surprise prediction, untradable prospect

Braves Rumors: Alex Cobb as a surprise trade candidate

Rather than trading for a rental, Atlanta should consider an established starting pitcher like Alex Cobb of the San Francisco Giants. On the surface, trading for Cobb makes a lot of sense. Kyle Wright and Max Fried are injured. Cobb offers support in the middle of the rotation behind the likes of Spencer Strider and Charlie Morton.

However, the surprise could come later on. Trading for Cobb, who has a $10 million club option for 2024, offers the Braves a 2024 replacement for Charlie Morton if they prefer. Morton also has a club option, but his is $20 million. Keeping Cobb for half the price offers up more financial headway for Alex Anthopoulos to work with this winter.

Morton definitely has the better overall resume than Cobb, but the latter is arguably having a better 2023 season, and may make sense long term. Morton will be 40 years old next season, while Cobb is turning 36. He’s cheaper, and coming off a better campaign. What’s not to love?

Anthopoulos has thrown loyalty out the door many times before — look no further than Dansby Swanson and Freddie Freeman. In terms of pure fit, FanSided’s Cody Williams made that argument earlier this week:

"“In 13 starts with the Giants this year, Cobb has been wholly impressive with a 3.01 ERA and 1.35 WHIP. While he has seen his ERA rise relatively recently, he’s remained extremely reliable whenever he’s been the starter. With the Giants falling out of contention, though, Cobb is in what could be the final year of his contract as he has a $10 million club option for the 2024 season left on the deal. At 35 years old, that could make him an asset that San Francisco would look to deal to try and get something in return as the franchise seemingly looks toward a younger direction.”"

Cobb is far more than a rental. He gives the Braves flexibility. What more could Anthopoulos ask for?