MLB Rumors: Blake Snell trade buzz, Braves-Cubs trade, Mariners targeting All-Star

MLB Rumors: Braves trade for Cubs RP Michael Fulmer could help both sides

As noted by FanSided’s John Buhler, the Atlanta Braves don’t necessarily need to make the moves that some expected them to early in the year at the trade deadline. If Alex Anthopoulos does want to improve the roster, however, the most logical place to improve would be in the bullpen. And the Chicago Cubs could potentially offer an answer.

Much of the trade-related buzz with the Cubbies right now is rightfully concerned with NL Cy Young candidate Marcus Stroman and former MVP Cody Bellinger. While both would make the Braves better in a vacuum, they don’t address the most immediate need. Michael Fulmer, on the other hand, could be a huge asset for Atlanta. He was also listed by MLB Trade Rumors as one of the top 50 players who could be dealt before Aug. 1.

The 30-year-old right-hander will become a free agent after this season and, as the Cubs waffle between what the plan will be at the deadline, he could be expendable whether or not they buy or sell — especially in a trade with the Braves.

On the surface, the 4.50 ERA and 1.28 WHIP for Fulmer might seem a bit pedestrian for Atlanta to consider. However, those stats are colored heavily by an awful April and May. Since then, he’s been quite dominant, posting an 0.66 ERA in 12 June appearances and a 2.08 ER in three games thus far in July. Moreover, his track record has proven he’s a good asset in the bullpen.

Meanwhile, if the Cubs want to push to try and win the lowly NL Central, flipping Fulmer for help to improve a needy lineup for someone like Travis d’Arnaud could be a huge help for the offense. But even if Chicago is selling, they could still help the future dealing with Atlanta, targeting another bat like Vaughn Grissom or pursuing young, controllable starting pitchers such as Jared Shuster or Dylan Dodd.

There’s a lot to like here for both the Cubs and Braves. No matter where Chicago lands on the spectrum of buyers and sellers, involving Fulmer means there’s a deal to be made between the two organizations.