ajc
After examining the free-agent market for starting pitchers, the focus shifts to potential trade targets for the Atlanta Braves. According to MLB Trade Rumors' top 40 trade candidates list, several intriguing arms could be on the move this offseason.
One name to watch is left-hander Reid Detmers of the Los Angeles Angels. The 27-year-old is under team control through 2028 and has drawn interest from Atlanta before. When the Angels shopped both Detmers and Jose Soriano in July, the Braves reportedly preferred Detmers, though Soriano was ultimately dealt to Toronto. The Louisville product is considered an extension candidate, and while the Angels may want to keep him as they transition under new ownership, they could entertain offers. Acquiring Detmers would likely require a prospect of Cam Caminiti's caliber.
Right-hander Drew Rasmussen of the Tampa Bay Rays is another option. The 31-year-old is signed for $20 million in 2027 and has been a strong starter when healthy. The Rays, known for trading players before they become expensive, might be willing to move him. However, his injury history could give the Braves pause.
George Kirby, a right-hander for the Seattle Mariners, is controllable through 2028 and has shown ace-level potential. The 29-year-old (30 in February) features elite velocity and strikeout stuff, but his inconsistent performance in 2025 raised questions. The Mariners might not be eager to trade him, but if they do, the cost would be high.
Emerson Hancock, a 28-year-old right-hander also with the Mariners, is controllable through 2030. He has struggled with consistency but could benefit from a change of scenery. Hancock's value is lower than Kirby's, making him a more affordable option.
Jacob deGrom of the Texas Rangers is a high-risk, high-reward candidate. The 38-year-old is signed for $38 million in 2027 with a $20 million club option for 2028. Injuries have limited him in recent years, but when healthy, he remains one of the best pitchers in baseball. The Rangers might be willing to move him to shed salary.
MacKenzie Gore, a left-hander for the Washington Nationals, is arbitration-eligible for the final time. The 28-year-old (29 in February) has shown flashes of brilliance but has yet to put it all together. A change of scenery could help him reach his potential.
Yusei Kikuchi, a left-hander for the Los Angeles Angels, is signed for $21 million in 2027. The 35-year-old is a solid mid-rotation starter but may not be a difference-maker. The Angels might be willing to move him to clear payroll.
Carmen Mlodzinski, a right-hander for the Pittsburgh Pirates, is controllable through 2029. The 28-year-old (29 in February) has been a reliable reliever but could be stretched out as a starter. His low cost and controllability make him an attractive option.
Will Warren, a right-hander for the New York Yankees, is controllable through 2030. The 27-year-old has shown promise but has been inconsistent. The Yankees might be willing to move him for big-league help.
Edward Cabrera, a right-hander for the Miami Marlins, is controllable through 2028. The 28-year-old (29 in February) has electric stuff but has struggled with command. A change of scenery could help him unlock his potential.
Ryan Weathers, a left-hander for the Miami Marlins, is controllable through 2028. The 27-year-old (28 in December) has been a solid back-end starter but may not be more than that. The Marlins might be willing to move him for prospects.
Joe Ryan, a right-hander for the Minnesota Twins, is arbitration-eligible for the final time. The 30-year-old has been a reliable mid-rotation starter but may not be a difference-maker. The Twins might be willing to move him to shed salary.
Key Analysis
The Braves have several options to upgrade their rotation via trade. While names like Detmers and Kirby offer high upside, they would come at a significant prospect cost. More affordable options like Hancock, Mlodzinski, and Weathers could provide depth without depleting the farm system. The front office must weigh the cost of acquisition against the potential impact on the team's competitiveness.
Originally reported by ajc.