The 2024 Major League Baseball trade deadline will come and pass on July 30th and it would be shocking if the Atlanta Braves didn't add another starting pitcher.
Atlanta has been in rumors left and right over the last few weeks and it seems clear that it will be one of the most active teams around the deadline. The Braves are loaded with talent and still have a chance to win the World Series this season despite multiple high-impact injuries.
The most obvious area the Braves could improve this summer is the starting rotation. Atlanta lost Spencer Strider to a tough injury and could look to add another frontline starter.
There will be a handful of intriguing players available and the Braves should be considering all options at this point. One player who could be a great option for Atlanta if he ends up being available is Houston Astros ace Framber Valdez.
It isn't a guarantee that he will be moved, but if the Astros end up selling, he was mentioned as a trade candidate by Bleacher Report's Kerry Miller.
"Players Available, if Selling: (Third Baseman) Alex Bregman (UFA), (Right-handed pitcher) Justin Verlander ($17.5M vesting player option for 2025, but it's highly unlikely he'll pitch enough innings for it to vest), (Outfielder) Kyle Tucker (arbitration-eligible in 2025), (Left-handed pitcher) Framber Valdez (arbitration-eligible in 2025), (Right-handed pitcher) Ryan Pressly ($14M vesting/mutual option for 2025)."
Valdez would be a great option for the Braves. He would help their chances at winning a World Series title this season. Plus, he is under team control for the 2025 season and would help them then as well. The Braves should be considering all options at this point, but the 2025 campaign is a more likely option to contend.
Atlanta still has a chance this season but next year would be more likely. Landing someone like Valdez would help with both.
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