The Atlanta Braves are a constant presence during this time of year. While they do not always make the most high-profile signings, Alex Anthopoulos always finds a way to make an impact. Last season, the Braves acquired starting pitcher Chris Sale from the Boston Red Sox, who went on to win the National League Cy Young. This year, Atlanta may focus on improving their offense, which failed and kept them from making the playoffs.
The Braves struggled to find a reliable left fielder in 2024, despite the presence of Ronald Acuña Jr. and Michael Harris II. Jarred Kelenic, obtained in a trade last winter, has struggled with consistency, which may drive Alex Anthopoulos to hunt for a successor.
Kyle Tucker of the Houston Astros would be the ideal trade target, should he becomes available this winter. Astros general manager Dana Brown stoked speculation on Monday, saying that anyone, including Tucker, might be traded.
On Tuesday, FanSided’s John Buhler proposed an audacious trade: acquiring Tucker from the Astros in return for Kelenic, pitcher A.J. Smith-Shawver, and catcher Drake Baldwin, all of whom are regarded among Atlanta’s top five prospects. “For Atlanta, the Braves get the all-star player they need to have a successful summer.
“The idea of Anthopoulos extending Tucker immediately upon arrival is quite good,” Buhler stated. “Kelenic is a mega-talent, but he is as streaky and inconsistent as an outfielder can get. Since Atlanta does not want to deal Hurston Waldrep, send the Astros AJ Smith-Shawver instead. To sweeten the deal, Drake Baldwin makes it a trio trip to Houston.”
“Kelenic is a mega-talent, but he is as streaky and inconsistent as an outfielder can get. Since Atlanta does not want to deal Hurston Waldrep, send the Astros AJ Smith-Shawver instead. To sweeten the deal, Drake Baldwin makes it a trio trip to Houston.” With Tucker on the Braves, Atlanta would have a strong starting outfield for practically every game next season. Acuña or Tucker could play left field at Truist Park and make a solid defensive trio with Harris in center.
However, Tucker is only under contract for one more year, so acquiring him would be contingent on the Braves’ ability to extend him, which Alex Anthopoulos is notorious for. Tucker’s current contract is worth $195 million over seven years, according to Spotrac projections.
Can the Braves complete both a trade for Tucker and an extension before opening day at Truist Park? It may be difficult, but considering Anthopoulos’ track record, it is never prudent to rule anything out.