MLB Rumors: Ideal Braves fit, Yankees target a closer, Shane Bieber buzz
By Scott Rogust
This player fits the Braves’ rumored trade deadline plans
The Atlanta Braves are thriving early on this season, despite the injuries they have dealt with. They recently swept the New York Mets, who have the highest payroll in baseball. The team has a slight lead over the Miami Marlins, who are about a handful of games behind them.
So what are the Braves to do at the trade deadline? Well, ESPN’s Brandon Doolittle highlighted where all 30 MLB teams stand heading into the Aug. 1 trade deadline (subscription required), and noted that the Braves could opt to address their weakness — defense.
"“Why they will add: The foundation of the Braves looks as rock solid as ever, with supreme performances from Ronald Acuna Jr. and Spencer Strider marking Atlanta as a prime World Series contender. Under the hood, things look a bit more uneven as a rocket-ship start to the season began to fade around the middle of May as the injuries mounted, particularly to the rotation. The Braves have maintained their perch in the NL East at least in part because their anticipated challengers (New York Mets and Philadelphia Phillies) have yet to mount a consistent charge. By the deadline, the Braves should have a more fixed idea of their needs as the injured pitchers hopefully work their way back. Right now, the Braves’ team defense looks like a weakness and they have scrambled a bit in the bullpen. With injury luck, the acuity of those cracks in the mortar will be clear by late July.”"
When looking at the team’s need to address defense, one player that fits the bill is Matt Duffy of the Kansas City Royals. With the infield being set with first baseman Matt Olson, second baseman Ozzie Albies, and third baseman Austin Riley, Duffy can play all three of their positions. So, he could be a quality depth option for the team in the second half of the season.
At second base, Duffy holds a .930 fielding percentage (17 putouts, 23 assists, three errors on 43 chances) in 90.0 innings (13 games). At third, Duffy recorded a .941 fielding percentage (seven putouts, 25 assists, two errors on 34 chances) in 88.0 innings (13 games).