Atlanta Braves: Five more players who could be traded
By Aaron Somers
Aug 13, 2014; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Braves left fielder Justin Upton (8) prepares to bat against Los Angeles Dodgers starting pitcher Hyun-Jin Ryu (not pictured) in the first inning of their game at Turner Field. The Braves won 3-2. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports
Justin Upton, OF
Perhaps the younger Upton brother is an obvious choice, particularly as there have already been rumblings about his potential availability on the trade market. Perhaps those rumblings are reason enough to believe that he too will be moved by the Braves before long.
Justin Upton is heading into his final season before free agency and, barring something unexpected, doesn’t appear to be a favorite to land his own contract extension with the Braves in the coming months. Atlanta could hold onto him heading into the 2015 season, with the plan to extend him a qualifying offer (assuming he produces this season) and recoup the draft pick when he signs elsewhere. Atlanta could also wait, dealing him at the trade deadline to a team in contention.
The alternative would be to move him now, when he’s at his peak value.
The popular suitor amid most speculation has Upton as an option for the Seattle Mariners. Prior to being dealt to the Braves, Upton was nearly traded to Seattle by the Arizona Diamondbacks. A deal was in place between the two sides two offseasons ago – Arizona would have received Taijuan Walker in return – but Upton used his no-trade clause to veto the move.
Seattle is no longer on his no-trade list and they have a need for a strong bat to add to their lineup. Walker is unlikely to be included in a deal should discussions pick up, unless Atlanta looks to include another piece in order to entice the Mariners. Walker’s under team control for six seasons. Parting with him alone for a player one year removed from free agency doesn’t seem like a likely decision. The Mariners could look to put together a collection of players (potentially including Brad Miller or Chris Taylor, who could play second for Atlanta) that may appeal to the Braves.
Upton batted .270/.342/.491 in 641 plate appearances in 2014. His 29 HR and 102 RBI both led the team.