Quote:
Originally Posted by manbearpig
Every now and then I like to read through the comments section from Braves articles and blogs in the AJC. The comments lately have been focusing on trade deadline stuff mostly.
I am not sure where I stand on this year to be honest. If Hudson comes back healthy the Braves have 6 quality starters.
JJ
Lowe
Hanson
Vasquez
KK
Hudson
Does Hudson come back starting in the bullpen? Seems like it would be a good way to ease him back in and the Braves could use the extra arm out there. To be honest, I don't think its fair to expect much, if anything, out of Hudson.
As far as trades go Hanson and JJ are untouchable and Hudson/Lowe/KK won't bring value, leaving just Vasquez as potential trade bait. His value has never been higher and he is probably due for a regression but he has been outstanding this year. I think he is signed through next year as well. I would just hate to move him and then have Hudson have a set back and KK wilt a bit and then be short pitching.
As far as the lineup goes the one spot I think the Braves really need immediate help is 1B. Kotchman and his ~750ish OPS isn't really getting it done. Apparently the Braves had scouts at a recent White Sox game looking at Konerko who is an upgrade but also brings some serious salary addition. It looks like the Nats might move Dunn who has played some 1B and would be a huge add offensively for basically the same money as Konerko.
The question is what would the Braves have to give up to get an impact player at 1B? Kotchman + ? to the Nats for Dunn? They get a young, cheap 1B if they aren't in love with Nick Johnson. I don't know that that makes a ton of sense but I am trying to spitball some ideas around.
In terms of the pitching staff, I think they'll keep Lowe, Hanson, and Kawakami for sure. Hudson has a $12 million option for next year which sounds like it will get picked up. I actually think they might try to trade Jurjens as they could a.) get a ton for him and b.) he's a Boras client which the Braves hate to deal with. I doubt that's what they end up doing but if they want to get a young impact bat that's probably the best move.
With all that said, I agree that Vazquez is the most likely candidate to be moved after the season. He's basically having a career year and he's locked up next year for a relatively cheap amount at $11 million.
They do need to improve the offense and I agree 1B is probably where they'll look to make a move. Kotchman + a few prospects seems to be the obvious upgrade.